Goemkarponn Desk
PORVORIM: Goa’s opposition parties on Monday today lambasted the BJP government over shifting of international airlines from Dabolim airport to Manohar International Airport at Mopa, terming it a conspiracy to shut the south Goa airport.
“One after the other, airlines are shifting to Mopa and the government remains a silent spectator. Is this part of a larger conspiracy? Dabolim is becoming a ghost airport, on ventilator and admitted in ICU” Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao said.
He claimed, Qatar Airways, Oman and other international airports have already ceased operations at Dabolim Airport, which is located in the South district, and relocated to Manohar International Airport in North Goa.
“I had asked Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to take the initiative to guarantee the survival of Dabolim Airport. Regretfully, the BJP government is purposefully ignoring the different airlines’ changes in operations.
“We have observed a dramatic drop in passenger volume and airline activity at Dabolim during the past two years. Alemao stated that the government has not produced a thorough action plan to guarantee the continuation of Dabolim International Airport.
Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai said that the exodus from Dabolim continues.
“Despite the government’s repeated assertions that the Dabolim Airport will not be allowed to shut down, the news everyday points to just the opposite. One by one, both domestic and international airlines are packing their bags and shifting to MIA,” he said.
“The growing concern of South Goa passengers is real and justified, and I have repeatedly and forcefully raised their fears both in the Assembly and outside.
Vijai also alleged that flight details operating at Mopa and Dabolim have been fabricated to show Dabolim is looking good.
“Government should place dual airport management plan. Nothing is in Goa government’s hand,” he added
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant must clarify why airlines are abandoning Dabolim despite his word to the people of Goa that he won’t allow it to happen,” he said.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that Dabolim Airport is operating at full capacity and handles 57% of Goa’s air traffic and the government is committed to supporting the expansion of Dabolim Airport alongside Manohar International Airport for continued viability and sustainability..
“Total domestic passengers for Dabolim and Manohar International Airports: 47,34,524 Total international passengers: 2,38,315,” said CM
Sawant said that he government of Goa has supported Dabolim Airport by developing infrastructure like a Grade Separator to ease traffic around the terminal.
“The project includes two flyovers on NH 17B, one towards Verna (710m) and the other towards Vasco (579m), totaling approximately 1289m at a cost of Rs. 38.52 crore. These flyovers have improved passenger flow to the terminal,” CM added
