Two Billions Seperates to Build another International Airport

The Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Sri Lanka faces a setback in its expansion project, particularly Phase II (Terminal 2), due to the withdrawal of the main contractor, Japan’s Taisei Corporation. Citing economic instability and defaulted international payments, Taisei’s departure has left the construction site deserted.

Only one-fifth of Phase II is complete, and with a project cost of Rs 160 billion, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided Rs 21 billion. The Airport & Aviation Services Sri Lanka Ltd (AASL) is now tasked with taking over materials on site, ensuring their safeguarding until a new Japanese contractor is selected.

The Phase II project aims to enhance traveler experience, increase capacity by 9 million passengers annually, and improve infrastructure sustainably. Challenges include a stalled construction site, inconvenience to passengers, and the need to protect materials until project resumption.

The Sri Lankan government is committed to completing the project, despite the complexities arising from Taisei’s withdrawal. Talks with JICA are anticipated after an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, with a potential project resumption timeline of two years.