- Japan is providing a 2.853 billion yen grant to upgrade air traffic control facilities at Nepal's Tribhuvan International Airport.
- The funding will modernize the airport's control tower, communication, and navigation systems to align with international safety standards.
- The project includes infrastructure improvements and staff training to enhance aviation safety, reliability, and disaster management capabilities.
- This agreement strengthens diplomatic ties and supports Nepal’s economic development through improved air travel efficiency and connectivity.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Japan has agreed to provide Nepal with a grant of 2.853 billion yen, equivalent to about Rs 2.767 billion, 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 in Kathmandu on Thursday, according to the Embassy of Japan.
The project will focus on upgrading the airport's air traffic control infrastructure, including the control tower, air traffic control centre and related systems. Japan's Foreign Ministry said the project is intended to improve the quality of air traffic control services and strengthen aviation safety at the airport.
The grant will cover improvements to essential facilities and equipment, including power and backup power systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, fire protection and security systems.
It will also support the modernization of communication, navigation and surveillance systems used for air traffic management. The systems will be upgraded in line with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Training will also be provided to strengthen Nepal's capacity to operate and maintain the upgraded facilities.
TIA is Nepal's main international airport and an important gateway for tourism, trade and international travel. The airport faces particular operational challenges because it is located in the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by high mountains, and must handle changing weather conditions.
Japan's Foreign Ministry said the airport's air traffic control facilities and equipment have become outdated while demand for air travel has increased. It said improving safety at the airport has become an urgent issue.
The Japanese Embassy said the project is expected to improve the safety, reliability and efficiency of air traffic control and help the airport maintain services during disasters and other emergencies. The improvements are also expected to support Nepal's tourism, trade and connectivity.
The project comes as Nepal and Japan mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. Japan has been providing development assistance to Nepal in areas including aviation safety and human resource development.
Japan's Foreign Ministry said the project is expected to contribute to Nepal's economic and social development while further strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
