South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes Claims Dabolim Airport Closure Plan Temporarily Shelved
In a significant development from Margao, South Goa Member of Parliament Viriato Fernandes has asserted that the controversial proposal to shut down Dabolim airport for commercial flights has been temporarily shelved. However, Fernandes issued a stark warning, stating that what he describes as a "conspiracy" against the state's economic interests remains an active and looming threat.
Allegations of a Political Conspiracy
Fernandes made serious allegations, claiming the plan to close Dabolim is part of a larger, orchestrated conspiracy by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with the full knowledge and complicity of its state leadership in Goa. "The file that was moved was only kept on hold; the move has not been stopped. The government's conspiracy is exposed, and therefore the move has been kept in abeyance," Fernandes declared emphatically.
He further vowed to resist any future attempts to proceed with the shutdown, stating he would not allow it to proceed under any circumstances, highlighting his firm stance on protecting the airport's commercial operations.
Background of Political Tensions
This clarification from the MP comes just days after he ignited a political firestorm by alleging that the state government had given its consent to the central government to shut down Dabolim for both commercial and civil operations. Opposition parties had labeled this alleged move a "shocking betrayal" of the people of Goa, reflecting the high-stakes nature of the issue.
In a proactive measure, Fernandes also confirmed that he has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, formally requesting the continuity of civil operations at Dabolim airport, underscoring his efforts to safeguard its functionality through official channels.
Clarification on Height Restrictions and Gold Smuggling Probe
Addressing another point of contention, Fernandes clarified the issue of construction height restrictions around the airport perimeter. He stated these restrictions were imposed by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation through a circular dated September 30, 2015, and not by the Indian Navy. "The Navy is merely complying with the directives issued by the civil aviation ministry," he explained, aiming to dispel any misconceptions about the Navy's role.
Furthermore, when questioned about the high-profile gold smuggling case at Dabolim airport, Fernandes made explosive allegations. He claimed that officers from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) faced "immense pressure" to shut down the investigation. Asserting that a minister was involved in the case, Fernandes vowed to pursue the matter relentlessly, indicating his commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability.
The situation surrounding Dabolim airport remains tense, with Fernandes' statements highlighting ongoing political battles and economic concerns in Goa. The temporary shelving of the closure plan offers a reprieve, but the allegations of conspiracy and external pressures suggest the issue is far from resolved, keeping it a focal point in regional politics and aviation policy discussions.
