the goan I network
VASCO
The Indian Navy, on Sunday, issued a press release offering clarification on the issue of NOC for construction within 20 kms of Dabolim airfield.
“A 2015 gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), stipulates that a ‘No Objection Certificate’ needs to be sought from the Operating Authority of a particular aerodrome prior to any construction within 20 kilometers from the runway. Since Dabolim is a military/ civil dual use airfield, the Indian Navy is the aerodrome operating authority and the requirement of NOC is being pursued in accordance with MoCA guidelines.”
The purpose of the NOC is to examine the merit of each case and ensure no construction jeopardizes flight safety in the interest of tourists, local population, etc,” said the press note.
“In order to simplify the NOC process, a simple Colour Coded Zoning Map (CCZM) - which separates sectors/ areas in various categories within 20 kilometers from the runway - and the same has been promulgated on 15 October 2019. Only the core area around Dabolim Airfield and the approach path of runways would thereafter require NOC,” said the press note.
“In other sectors, NOC can be granted by local administration subject to varying height limitations. Only construction above these height limitations would require an NOC from the aerodrome operator. Thus the apprehension that the Navy will require NOCs from areas as far as Dona Paula and Agacaim for small buildings is unfounded,” said the press note.
The Navy further clarified that a person does not need to visit the naval premises for NOC since applications are forwarded to the Navy through the local administration i.e. panchayat/municipality.
Hence restricted entry into naval areas does not impose any constraints or cause any difficulty to the applicant.
“There are a few specific constructions in the immediate vicinity of Dabolim Airport which are extremely detrimental to safe flying as well as security of this important airbase. These buildings have not sought NOC from Indian Navy as required by GoI rules. The matter has been brought to the notice of the government and is being addressed suitably,” added the press release.
