DR PRAMOD SAWANT'S VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE GOA Takes Flight with the Inauguration of Mopa Airport

G o a , r e n o w n e d f o r i t s captivating shorelines and vibrant cultural heritage, is now on the threshold of a prosperous future with the completion of the magnificent Mopa International Airport Spearheaded by Dr Pramod Sawant, the youngest Chief Minister in the history of Goa, this ambitious project has transcended from mere conception to tangible reality. With cutting-edge technology a n d a c o m m i t m e n t t o sustainability ingrained in its infrastructure, Mopa Airport is poised to revolutionize air travel in the region while paving the way for a thriving tourism and trade industry. Let us embark on a journey through t h e i n c e p t i o n a n d transformation of Mopa Airport, poised to become one of the premier aviation hubs in Goa.

D r P r a m o d S a w a n t ' s Pioneering Efforts in Shaping

Mopa Airport

The visionary leadership and unwavering dedication of Dr Pramod Sawant have played a p i v o t a l r o l e i n t h e conceptualization of Mopa Airport. Guided by a steadfast commitment to progress and sustainable development, Dr Sawant has shaped the a i r p o r t ' s d e s i g n a n d infrastructure. Under his stewardship, Mopa Airport has embraced state-of-the-art technologies and world-class facilities, enabling it to accommodate some of the largest aircraft in existence. The airport's construction has n o t o n l y g e n e r a t e d employment opportunities but has also spurred the growth of the construction sector in the region. Driven by Dr Sawant's relentless efforts, Mopa Airport stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment t o t r a n s f o r m i n g G o a ' s transportation landscape.

The Advantages of Mopa Airport for Goa

Mopa Airport promises to deliver a multitude of benefits to the region and its people. Built upon the foundations of sustainable infrastructure, the airport incorporates a myriad of eco-friendly features, such as a solar power plant, green buildings, LED runway lights, rainwater harvesting systems, and an advanced sewage treatment plant equipped with recycling facilities. These initiatives highlight the commitment to environmental responsibility and ensure a minimal carbon footprint. Furthermore, Mopa Airport's strategic location in North G o a , a w a y f r o m t h e c o n g e s t i o n o f D a b o l i m Airport, will provide enhanced accessibility and convenience for travellers.

Moreover, the expanded capacity of the airport will stimulate tourism and bolster t r a d e , c r e a t i n g n e w opportunities for the local c o m m u n i t y P r e s e n t l y , Dabolim Airport handles 70 domestic flights and a handful of international charter flights on a daily basis. However, with the operationalization of Mopa Airport, more than 30 domestic destinations and 20 global destinations will be connected to Goa, thereby amplifying the state's allure as a tourist destination and fostering economic growth.

Noteworthy Features of Mopa Airport

Mopa Airport, incorporates a Solar Power Plant, Rainwater Harvesting systems, and a state-of-the-art Sewage Treatment Plant with recycling facilities. The airport's worldclass features include 3-D Monolithic Precast buildings, Stabil Road, Robomatic Hollow precast walls, and 5G compatible IT Infrastructure, positioning it as a cutting- edge facility.

Mopa Airport boasts an impressive array of features designed to enhance the passenger experience and p r o m o t e s u s t a i n a b l e practices. The airport's single r u n w a y , c a p a b l e o f accommodating a Boeing 777-200, is complemented by two rapid exit ways and interconnected taxiways. The commercial aircraft parking apron, its remote aircraft stands, and service roads ensure seamless operations. Additionally, the airport's cargo apron and future provisions for general aviation exemplify its versatility and potential for growth. These features, combined with an air traffic control tower and forthcoming hangars, position Mopa Airport as a modern a n d t e c h n o l o g i c a l l y advanced facility.

A c c o l a d e s a n d

Recognitions:

Mopa Airport has been widely recognized for its outstanding a c h i e v e m e n t s a n d contributions. It was honoured with the prestigious "Best S u s t a i n a b l e G r e e n f i e l d Airport" award for Aviation

Sustainability and Environment a t A S S O C H A M ' s 1 4 t h International Conferencecum-Awards for Civil Aviation in 2023. This recognition acknowledges the airport's e x c e l l e n t i n i t i a t i v e s , innovativeness, applicability, relevance, and potential impact.

The airport also received the esteemed SKOCH Award in t h e G o v e r n a n c e G o l d Category for 2022 This a w a r d c o m m e n d s t h e Department of Civil Aviation for its efforts in developing the Greenfield International Airport at Mopa.

Furthermore, at the 14th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards-2023, Goa's newly inaugurated Manohar International Airport at Mopa achieved significant recognition. The airport clinched the achievement award for Best Construction Project 2023 and the award for Construction Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)

2023. These accolades were bestowed upon Mopa Airport for its exemplary performance across various parameters, including innovative design, project management best practices, new construction methodologies, outstanding w o r k m a n s h i p , c o n t r a c t management, cost control, value engineering, safety practices, and environmental policies.

A Tapestry of Goan Culture at Mopa Airport

Mopa Airport transcends its role as a mere transportation h u b a n d e m b r a c e s t h e celebration of Goa's rich art and culture. The extensive use of Azulejos tiles, native to Goa, immerses travelers in the vibrant heritage of the region.

A curated flea market within the airport premises provides a platform for local artisans and craftsmen to showcase and market their unique creations Moreover, the airport's food court recreates the charm of a typical Goan café, allowing passengers to savour the flavours and ambience of the state.

Aviation Skill Development Center:

To provide employment opportunities to local youth, t h e G o a G o v e r n m e n t established an Aviation Skill Development Center at the new Greenfield Airport in Mopa The centre offers training in various areas such as airside operations, landside o p e r a t i o n s , t e r m i n a l operations, and engineering, enabling students to acquire skills for job profiles such as airline cargo assistant, airside operator, forklift operator, airside driver, sales associate, vehicle drivers, gardeners, housekeeping executives, landside security, cleaners, t r a f f i c w a r d e n , a i r l i n e baggage handler, IT support staff, food and beverage s t e w a r d , a n d H V A C technicians So far, 405 students have successfully c o m p l e t e d t h e s k i l l development course, with 403 i n d i v i d u a l s r e c e i v i n g appointment letters The employment count for Goans at Manohar International Airport currently stands at 1591, showcasing the positive impact of the Aviation Skill Development Center.

A Glimpse into the Future

The inauguration of Mopa International Airport heralds the dawn of a transformative era for North Goa. As the airport reaches its full operational capacity, it is set to attract national and i n t e r n a t i o n a l a i r l i n e s , e s t a b l i s h i n g G o a a s a prominent hub for tourism and t r a d e T h e s e a m l e s s connectivity and enhanced passenger experience will undoubtedly invigorate the tourism industry, further p r o p e l l i n g t h e s t a t e ' s economic growth. With Mopa A i r p o r t ' s s u s t a i n a b l e infrastructure and unwavering commitment t o environmental stewardship, Goa is poised to become a role model for other regions a s p i r i n g t o c r e a t e a greener and m o r e s u s t a i n a b l e future.

Conclusion

T h e inauguration o f M o p a

A i r p o r t n o t o n l y o f f e r s increased air connectivity and convenience but also unlocks the potential for economic growth, job creation, and a thriving tourism industry

S e r v i n g a s t h e n e w e s t gateway to Goa's treasures, Mopa Airport ushers in a bright and promising future for the state and its people.

Mopa International Airport is a t e s t a m e n t t o t h e transformative power of vision and dedication. Dr Pramod Sawant's relentless efforts have brought this ambitious project to life, positioning Goa on the global map as a s u s t a i n a b l e a n d technologically advanced destination. As the airport welcomes travellers from around the world, it is not only a gateway to the treasures of Goa but also a symbol of the s t a t e ' s c o m m i t m e n t t o p r o g r e s s , c u l t u r e , a n d environmental responsibility. With Mopa Airport, the sky's the limit for Goa's bright and promising future.