He went on to allege that those opposing Mopa airport were doing so for political reasons and added that the late Matanhy Saldanha’s opposition to the Mopa airport was his personal view and not necessarily of BJP or the BJP government.
“Mopa airport is the need of the hour, as Dabolim airport has become a saturated airport. The airport remains shut for civilian activity from 7 am to 1 pm,” said Lobo.
“There is objection to Mopa airport from a few people from South Goa who feel that Dabolim airport would be shut once Mopa airport becomes operational. This is, however, not true and there won’t be any effect on tourism business in South Goa, as six or four-lane roads will become a reality and tourists will be able to make it to their choice of hotels in South Goa within an hour or so,” he said.
“The Mopa airport will also generate huge employment to Goans and Goan youth will stop migrating to UK or European countries on Portuguese passports. Twenty per cent of Goan population has already migrated to other countries in search of lucrative jobs and Mopa airport will put a break on such migrations,” added Lobo.
“We definitely need a second airport. Those opposing Mopa airport are doing it for political reasons,” stated Lobo.
When brought to his notice that Goans are taken for granted and jobs denied to them, Lobo said the government should come out with a notification or circular stating that 60% jobs should be
reserved for Goans at
Mopa airport.
