MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed the Goa Legislative Assembly that GMR has requested additional time to develop the 693-acre green belt around Mopa airport, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
Sawant assured that the government has not breached the concessionaire agreement and will begin receiving its share of gross revenue from December 2024.
"The green belt development is pending. The government is fully aware, and GMR has asked for more time, which we have granted," Sawant stated.
He also noted that the compensatory plantation, required by the Supreme Court, has been completed with 5.5 lakh saplings planted. Their survival rate is monitored and maintained by the Goa State Biodiversity Board.
Sawant explained that the extension of the revenue holiday was due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and court proceedings. He confirmed that GMR will start paying 36.99 per cent of their gross revenue to the State from December 7 this year.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that most individuals who lost land have been compensated, with the aviation ministry assisting those with pending documentation. Sawant assured that land loser certificates would be provided to all applicants.
