MOPA: Even as taps ran dry in Pernem taluka, forcing residents to go without water for over a month last year, the IndiGo flight 6E 6145 from Hyderabad, which was the first to land at Manohar International Airport (MIA), Mopa at around 9 am, received a traditional water cannon salute on its arrival.
This when locals from almost every village alleging that water was being diverted to the Mopa airport site, leaving their lands parched.
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The landing of the IndiGo flight marked the commencement of commercial domestic flight operations at MIA.
The passengers were accorded a warm welcome by the airline, airport staff, and a live Goan band. Few tourists were even seen dancing to the tunes.
Along with Indigo, Go First too commenced its daily flights to and from MIA, with several other airlines finalising the modalities.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the flight operations in the presence of Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Gen V K Singh (virtually), Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, and Union Minister of State for Tourism, Shripad Naik.
The Chief Minister said, “This project is a major achievement of the State and Central governments. I warmly welcome the tourists, and passengers landing in Goa on behalf of the people of Goa. This was a most-awaited and revenue-sharing project. The Commencement of this project was very important as it will boost the tourism and cargo carrying as well as growth and economy of the State.”
“The dream of Goans has been fulfilled through the conception of the new airport. Flights are arriving and leaving at full capacity which speaks a lot about the need of having a second airport in the State as well as the potential of Goa Tourism. This project is going to transform the State,” said Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Naik.
R V Sheshan, CEO-GGIAL, said, “The commencement of flight operations at the new Goa Manohar International Airport marks the beginning of a new chapter of growth for Goa. Through this airport, GGIAL will constantly work towards providing a world-class experience for travellers, airlines, and all stakeholders. Goa is an international tourism destination and we aim to cater to the world with the best of facilities.”
Meanwhile, tourists, who landed on the first two flights, were welcomed by a Goan band playing live music. Few tourists were even seen dancing to the tunes.
Sharing their experience, they said that they had not expected a Goan band to welcome them.
A group of tourists, who arrived in Goa from Bhubaneswar via Hyderabad said, “It was a great experience and we enjoyed the flight. The welcome at the airport reception was the best and out of expectations. The airport is beautiful, and Goa is awesome.”
