MAPUSA
The decision by Air India to relocate its international operations from Dabolim Airport to Manohar International Airport (MIA) at Mopa has triggered widespread concern among tourism stakeholders in South Goa.
Taxi operators, hoteliers and other tourism-related businesses fear the economic impact of airlines steadily migrating to MIA.
Raising the issue during the Zero Hour of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao highlighted the growing anxiety among those dependent on tourism in South Goa.
He pointed out that since MIA’s commissioning, multiple airlines have already moved their operations from Dabolim and the trend shows no signs of stopping.
“As of August 5, 2024, three flight operators had already shifted to Mopa, leading to a noticeable decline in passenger traffic at Dabolim,” Alemao stated.
He further criticised the government for failing to address the issue despite repeated appeals from local stakeholders.
“There is a growing fear that the continued shifting of air traffic to Mopa could eventually result in the closure of Dabolim Airport, severely impacting the tourism-dependent economy of South Goa,” he warned.
The situation has left many in the tourism sector uncertain about the future, with calls for urgent government intervention to prevent further damage to the region’s economy.
