PANAJI
The recent crash of an Air India Boeing aircraft into BJ Medical College’s hostel and canteen at Ahmedabad, is likely to be flagged before the High Court of Bombay at Goa, which has been hearing multiple petitions regarding unauthorised and high-rise constructions in the sensitive funnel zone of Dabolim airport.
After a series of directives from the High Court in ongoing matters, nearly 50 structures in the vicinity of Dabolim airport have already been demolished, either fully or partially, for posing risks to aviation activities.
Assistant Solicitor General of India, Pravin Faldessai, who appears on behalf of the Flag Officer Commanding Goa Naval Area and the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), told The Goan that the authorities’ position is clear on the issue. “We are particularly concerned about the top portion of structures that intrude into aviation activity space. Our stand is clear that there cannot be any obstructions to safe aircraft operations,” he stated.
He cited an example of the ongoing flyover project in the area which had to be halted midway after the High Court ordered the height to be reduced before construction could resume. “Even that had to be regulated. The court intervened and the flyover height was reduced. Aviation safety cannot be compromised,” Faldessai emphasised.
Apart from the High Court proceedings, there are also matters pending before civil aviation authorities, the Mormugao Planning and Development Authority, the Deputy Collector and other agencies over unauthorised constructions that have come up without approvals, violating clear aviation regulations.
“In several cases, the structures not only violate height restrictions but have also come up without any permissions from the local authorities or PDAs. Based on court and DGCA directions, many of these have already been razed either completely or to the extent required for compliance,” Faldessai added.
The Navy, which monitors construction near the airport due to operational control, is expected to continue enforcement, ensuring structures stay within permissible height or face demolition.
Legal sources say the HC remains firm on aviation safety, with no leeway likely. A key argument is that even two-metre structures in the funnel zone can breach Obstacle Limitation Surfaces, posing serious risks to aircraft. The matter in the HC is expected to be heard next month.
