Dabolim airport will continue operations: CM

The past few days have seen Dabolim airport emerge as a major issue in the state, with various MLAs — including Dabolim MLA Mauvin Godinho, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao, South Goa MP Capt (retd) Viriato Fernandes — making statements expressing concern about the future of Dabolim airport and hinting that the government planned to shut it down for civilian operations.

However, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has now assured that there is no truth in those statements.

The chief minister has said that the Opposition raises various issues for political gain whenever elections approach. He categorically stated that Dabolim airport will not be shut down, noting that Rs 450 crore is being spent on a flyover project, and that an additional Rs 300 to 400 crore has already been invested in the airport over the past five years.

He clarified that the airport will not be converted from a civilian facility to a naval one, adding that it will continue to serve both the Navy and the public.

The Chief Minister further said that both the state and central governments are keen to keep both airports operational, and added that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also assured that operations at Dabolim airport will continue.