Calangute MLA Michael Lobo speaks during the Assembly Session on Monday.
Photo Credits: Narayan Pissurlenkar
MAPUSA
In an unusual move, BJP MLA and former minister Michael Lobo put his own government under scrutiny on Monday by raising pointed questions in the Goa Legislative Assembly over the future and functioning of the Dabolim airport in light of the operational Mopa International Airport.
Lobo expressed serious concern over the lack of new international airline arrivals at Dabolim since the commissioning of the Mopa airport.
He questioned whether the government had conducted any feasibility studies to ensure both airports could function simultaneously without cannibalising each other’s potential.
“I’m speaking in the interest of Goa,” Lobo said, drawing support from the Opposition benches, who thumped their desks in approval each time he raised concerns.
“Both the former and current chief ministers had assured us that aircraft operations would not be diverted from Dabolim. But since Mopa began operations, no new international airlines have started flying to Dabolim.”
He further questioned whether any airlines have already been shifted from Dabolim to Mopa and pressed the government on the lack of a formal study to assess the economic impact of reduced footfall at Dabolim on small businesses like tea stalls, guesthouses and taxi services that depend on airport traffic.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, responding to Lobo's concerns, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to keeping both airports operational.
“We have no plans to shut Dabolim airport. We want both Dabolim and Mopa airports to function. Michaelak beupachi garaz nam (Michael need not fear),” Sawant said.
The CM said measures had already been taken by the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to encourage operations at Dabolim, including a near 50 percent reduction in User Development Fee (UDF), Aviation Security Fee and landing charges.
He also pointed out that Mopa airport is currently handling 90 flights daily and has generated ₹65.88 crore in revenue for the State.
However, when Lobo pressed for data on how businesses around Dabolim have been affected, the CM deflected, stating that the hotel industry in South Goa continues to receive tourists, suggesting minimal impact.
“Those tourists who prefer hotels in South Goa continue to patronise them,” Sawant said.
The exchange opened up room for the Opposition to pile on criticism, with Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao sarcastically remarking that at the current pace, Dabolim would soon become a “ghost airport.”
Lobo’s intervention not only highlighted growing unease over the twin-airport model but also exposed internal discontent within the ruling party over how the issue is being handled, signalling that concerns over Dabolim’s future may be far from settled.
