MARGAO
South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes on Friday said that Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has confirmed in a recent communication in June that flight operations at Dabolim Airport will continue as usual.
The South Goa MP informed that he had taken up the matter with the Union Defence Minister after doubts and fears were raised over the likely closure of the airport. “I had written to the Defence Minister seeking an official clarification on the airport's status and underscoring its significance to Goa's economy, tourism industry and thousands of livelihoods linked to it,” he said.
He added: “As a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee, I had also raised the matter with the topmost Defence officials, asserting that similar Defence airports like Dabolim existed all across the border states in North India, with parallel flying operations of Defence as well as civilian aircraft.”
At a time when questions were being raised about Dabolim Airport's long-term role following the commencement of operations at Mopa, Fernandes said he had urged the Union Government to provide a clear position on the matter, noting the airport's continuing importance to South Goa and the state as a whole.
Welcoming the response, the MP said: “Dabolim Airport remains a critical piece of infrastructure for Goa, particularly for South Goa. It continues to support economic activity, tourism, employment and connectivity across the state. Given the concerns that had been expressed regarding its long-term role, I felt it was important to seek a clear assurance from the Government of India.”
He added: “The confirmation by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that flight operations will continue as usual provides reassurance to passengers, workers, businesses and all those who depend on the airport directly or indirectly. I will continue to engage with the concerned authorities to ensure that Goa's interests are safeguarded in all matters relating to the state's aviation infrastructure.”
