1.<given the strategic importance of Dabolim in theoverall Indian naval defence plan.> [Roland Francis]. I dont see this at all. What is the threat perception? The Navy itself has been reduced to playing up "economic" threats to/from oil tankers etc in the Arabian Sea, not military threats. For this some maritime patrolling may certainly be required. No one objects to this being done out of Dabolim. But blocking off 4-5 hours a day for training on maritime strike aircraft and helicopters is a bit much given the acute need for tourist flights and connectivity for the average Goan. Moreover, this important activity could be relocated to Karwar, Kochi or wherever.
2.<A far-sighted government in Goa would have long ago abandoned Dabolim in favor of an alternate civilian airport site>[Rolan Francis]. And played right into the hands of the military. Dont you see there was really no need to issue the Cabinet reslution in 2000 when Mopa was just a gleam n everyone's eyes? It was based on the precedent of Kochi where civilian traffic was forced out to a new airport. Now we hear that the naval base in Kochi is being used for civilian traffic again. That's what will happen at Dabolim too, viz its use for VIPs. Its time Goa saw through some of these military machinations and stuck up for the right thing. Cheers.
