Japan to provide Rs 2.77 billion grant to upgrade TIA air traffic control facilities

Kathmandu / Oct 8: The Government of Japan is providing a grant of 2.853 billion yen (around Rs 2.767 billion) to Nepal to upgrade air traffic control facilities at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru and Finance Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhyaya signed the Exchange of Notes for the grant assistance on behalf of their respective governments, according to a press release issued by the Embassy of Japan.

The project will focus on rehabilitating the airport’s aging control tower and upgrading critical systems, including power and backup power, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, fire protection and security systems.

It will also modernize communication, navigation and surveillance systems, as well as air traffic management facilities, in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

The project will further strengthen the operation and maintenance capacity of Nepali authorities through training, the embassy said.

The upgrades are expected to improve aviation safety, ensure the continuity of airport operations during disasters and emergencies, and make air traffic management more efficient. The project is also expected to support tourism, trade and connectivity in Nepal.

The grant comes as Japan and Nepal mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.