Team Herald
PORVORIM: The Opposition on Monday said that with some airlines shifting their operations to Mopa, the Dabolim airport is turning into a “ghost” airport.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the State Assembly, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao said the shifting of operations will have a severe impact on taxi operators and hotel owners.
“There is fear and anxiety among the tourism stakeholders like taxi owners, hoteliers and other businessmen, particularly from South Goa, with regards to the announcements made by the national carrier Air India,” he said.
Alemao pointed out that the shifting of international operations from Dabolim to Manohar International Airport since its commissioning, many airlines have shifted their operations from Dabolim to Mopa and this trend is going on.
Till August 5, 2024, three operators have shifted their operations from Goa International Airport, Dabolim, to Manohar International Airport, Mopa, and despite appeals, the government failed to stop the shifting of airlines from Dabolim to Mopa, he said, adding that this move will have severe impact on the tourism industry in South Goa.
“There is a fear among the stakeholders and people that the Dabolim airport will be shut to help Manohar International Airport to grow. Dabolim airport was dying a slow death and was on the ventilator, which the current government is trying to remove,” he alleged.