MARGAO
Goa Forward Party (GFP) President Vijai Sardesai has strongly opposed the proposed extension of GMR’s revenue holiday period for Mopa Airport, calling it anti-Goan and harmful to the State’s finances.
Sardesai revealed that despite previous assurances made to the House that revenue sharing from GMR Mopa would start in May 2024, there are secret efforts at the cabinet level to extend this period until December 2024. “I have learnt a Cabinet note is being prepared by a third party, rather than the Department of Civil Aviation, to facilitate this extension,” he said.
In its tariff proposal to the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority, GMR estimated a revenue of Rs 556 crores for FY 2024 from aeronautic revenue and around Rs 40 crores from non-aeronautic revenue (e.g., hotels, parking, lounge, etc.). Out of the total Rs 596 crores, the State’s share as per the PPP agreement is 36.99%, which is Rs 220 crores. GMR claims 50% of Goa’s domestic air traffic and 80% of international air travel.
“This move is not only a breach of the Concession Agreement, which does not allow for such an extension,” Sardesai stated.
adding, “Going ahead with this plan will be a direct violation of the privileges of the House.”
The Goa Forward Party warns that Civil Aviation officers from the Government of Goa will be held accountable for this decision. The party plans to escalate the matter to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), and the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
“Be warned, any attempt to undermine the agreed terms and harm Goa financially will not go unchallenged,” Sardesai emphasised.
