Claiming there is absolutely no threat to operations at Dabolim Airport with the inauguration of Manohar Internation Airport at Mopa, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho has said PM Narendra Modi and Union Civil Aviation Minster Jyotiraditya Scindia have clearly mentioned that both airports would continue operations.
Godinho was speaking to reporters after attending a review meeting with various departments to oversee arrangements for the upcoming Liberation Day function at Chicalim panchayat ground.
“I don’t know why a fear psychosis is being created to paint a picture that Dabolim airport is being closed down. I can say it with guarantee that both airports will function. Besides, PM Narendra Modi and Union Civil Aviation Minster Jyotiraditya Scindia have very clearly mentioned and made it clear that both the airports will continue operations,” said Godinho.
“There is enough traffic for both the airports and right now, Mopa will only cater to 44 lakh passengers annually. Even if it is decided that only the Mopa Airport will remain, it will take a minimum of 10 years to shift the entire operation from one place to another.”
“In fact, air traffic in the next ten years will rise manifold and we can check the report by Asian Organisation of Aviation Safety, where it was mentioned in an official report that Goa may even need a third airport with a huge rise in air traffic. So, I have no fear nor do I ever feel that the Dabolim Airport will ever close down,” said Godinho.
Speaking on the review meeting, Godinho said arrangements were being planned for the Liberation Day celebration.
“We have plans to celebrate Liberation Day in a different way where we have programmes to boost the patriotic feeling of the people for the State and the country by organising various competitions and performance.”
“We will also have a vintage car rally after the program to ensure that there will be a function with a difference and this is why we called all departments and stakeholders concerned to come out with a nice plan for December 19,” said Godinho.
