Centre's letter on Dabolim airport reassures Alemao

the goan I network
MARGAO

Addressing the media on Wednesday, Churchill said that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has handed over to him a letter from the Civil Aviation Ministry stating that the Government of India has approved the proposal of the Goa government for continuation of civilian operations at the Dabolim civil aviation enclave even after the commissioning of the new international airport at Mopa.
"I have always been insisting that unless the Union Civil Aviation Ministry gives in writing that Dabolim airport will co-exist with Mopa, the people of Goa will never believe Dabolim will continue to operate after Mopa becomes a reality. The Civil Aviation Ministry's letter now confirms that both Dabolim and Mopa will co-exist in the state," he said.
Churchill recalled that he had raised the issue in the ongoing session of the Legislative Assembly and the Chief Minister has replied to him that the government has inserted a clause in the concession agreement that Dabolim will continue to operate for civilian use even after the commissioning of the Mopa airport.
The Benaulim MLA further told the media that he has been assured by the Tourism Minister on the floor of the House to take up development of the beach stretch in Benaulim constituency, which includes constructing changing rooms and temporary toilets. "I had assured the people of Benaulim constituency during the election that I would forcefully take up the issue of beach development at Benaulim, Colva, Varca and Cavelossim," he said.
The lone NCP MLA further said that he has made a forceful plea to the government to ensure that shacks are allotted to the owners well in advance, and not to delay the process till the year end. He also said that he was able to convince the Chief Minister to keep the speed governors on hold for six months since the concept may not be feasible in Goa.