PANAJI
Against the backdrop of teething problems at Manohar International Airport at Mopa going viral on various social media platforms, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte took a potshot at ‘certain elements’ for working against the system. He however assured the people to resolve the issues highlighted by the passengers at the world-class facility.
“Overall, the functioning at the new airport is smooth, although some passengers have brought to the notice gray areas, which will be addressed and improved upon by the GMR. There will be a lot of things against the system...Some people will twist the issue against the government but we are ready for it,” he said.
The minister was replying to media queries after attending the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant-headed review meeting on the functioning of Goa’s second airport. Exorbitant and unreasonable cab rates to poor Wi-Fi connectivity at the facility garnered maximum attention on social media, prompting the government to issue a statement.
“Certain things need improvisation. It will fall in place subsequently,” Khaunte said conceding that any new venture endures initial hiccups.
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, who also attended the meeting, defended the high taxi fare claiming that the concerned passenger opted for a luxury taxi travel through the Taxi App.
“It was therefore obvious the fare will be higher because he travelled from Mopa to Benaulim. Government is nevertheless trying to work out something to bring down the taxi tariffs,” Godinho said.
Khaunte added, “Certain rates are concerning the fast track line.”
The government has further proposed holding monthly meetings to review the functioning of the new airport ‘till things settle down’.
