Excavator Association argues project poses potential risk to aviation safety
A flight flying near the excavation site at the funnel zone of Dabolim Airport.
THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
The All Goa Excavator Owners Association on Wednesday evening raised serious concerns over the approval granted by the South Goa Collector office to a project proponent involved in excavation and proposed construction within the funnel zone of Dabolim Airport.
The association questioned the legality and safety implications of the project, which they argue violates regulations and poses a potential risk to aviation safety.
Association President Avinash Bhobe expressed shock upon discovering that construction activities had resumed, despite previous objections and a stop-work order from the Panchayat.
"The works had stopped for a very long time, but we were in great shock when we found the work going on in full swing. We questioned the contractor, who informed us that they had received permissions from the office of the South Goa Collector, claiming that the hill cutting slope was within legal limits," Bhobe said.
He emphasised the safety concerns, particularly due to the project’s proximity to the flight landing path of the Dabolim Airport.
Bhobe criticised the Collector’s office for granting permission for such activities in the funnel zone, despite the potential risks highlighted by the association.
"The barren Comunidade land has been kept with great care for years, and now, a Delhi-based party is involved in hill cutting and plotting in this area. The activity does not have Naval approvals, and yet the Collector’s office has allowed it to continue. It is sad that permission is being granted in the funnel zone, especially after the recent tragic Air India crash,” said Bhobe.
Sancoale Communidade attorney Jayesh Fadte said they would take legal action to address the matter.
"This is afframent land meant for agriculture and cultivation, belonging to the Sancoale Communidade. We cannot allow the land to be used for construction, and we will pursue legal recourse. The new rule by the Goa government for Communidade land specifies that land meant for agriculture cannot be used for any other purpose," Fadte said.
He added that they would consult with a senior lawyer to ensure that the Communidade land is protected and used in accordance with the law.
