VASCO
Hitting out at adverse criticism against the Navy over the issue of NOCs for construction around the airport, the Navy has said the allegations that it wanted to “control Goa” had been entirely unwarranted.
“There have been media statements regarding clearances required from the Navy for construction in the vicinity of Dabolim Airport. It is reiterated that clearances/restrictions are in accordance with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Height Restrictions for Safeguarding of Aircraft Operations) Rules 2015,” stated a Navy press note.
“The rules necessitate NOC from respective Airport Operating Authorities for construction in the vicinity of airfields. Since the Indian Navy operates the civil airport at Dabolim, cases for NOC in respect of Dabolim Airport are processed by Indian Navy as opposed to purely civil airfields in the country, where such clearances are processed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).”
The Navy said it had simplified the process of obtaining NOCs to the extent possible by processing all NOCs through MPDA or respective panchayats.
“The MPDA and panchayats concerned have been provided all details and documentation specimens for applying for NOC, including colour-coded Zoning Map prepared under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA) guidelines.”
“As far as concerns raised about the report sought by Indian Navy from MPDA about details of buildings which have violated MOCA rules around Dabolim airport, this is done only as per directives of the high court.”
“Unfounded allegations like Indian Navy is “restricting development” in Goa are uncalled for as aviation safety at Dabolim is of paramount concern and will not be compromised.”
“The issue of permits/NOCs is purely driven by international safety standards and has no relation with hindering development in Goa, least of all by the Indian Navy.
“Furthermore, “nature” or “purpose” of a building has no bearing on the relaxation of safety standards. It is purely based on the design plan proposed and the location vis-à-vis the airport.”
“Thus, while the Navy completely understands the necessity of constructing a storm shelter in Zuarinagar, its location dictates that design has to be as per the colour coded Zoning map. An acceptable design has now been received by the Navy and is being processed on a fast track,” stated the Navy.
The Navy categorically stated that all naval and government constructions in the vicinity of the airport are strictly guided by the MOCA restrictions.
“Statements in the media like the Navy wanting to “control Goa” is entirely unwarranted and the nation’s Armed Forces have a clear charter which is never exceeded.”
“The Indian Navy has been in the forefront to assist citizens during times of crisis such as floods. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a large number of aircraft were deployed to various destinations for collection of PPE, test kits and samples for use in Goa.”
“Provisions mandating issue of NOCs are beyond the scope of amendment by the Indian Navy and would continue to be in force unless international civil aviation safety norms are amended, or the Navy is directed by a higher authority to relax the regulations in force,” the Navy added.
