Staff Reporter
Panaji
Disposing of a petition challenging the construction of the Mormugao flyover, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the Navy to communicate its decision on the project to
the authorities.
The petition was filed by retired Indian Navy Officer, Cdr Atul Pant in public interest stating that the flyover comes within the Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) that could affect operations at Dabolim airport.
It was submitted before the High Court that by an application dated December 16, 2024, a request was made to the Captain, Senior Staff Officer (Aviation) For Flag Officer Commanding, Headquarters Goa Naval Area, Vasco da Gama, seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for height clearance for the project.
It was also submitted that as the project of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is in public interest, and that the Navy should consider the application for grant of NOC at the earliest considering the nature of the work that is being carried out.
The High Court said, “We have no doubt that the Navy will expedite the consideration of issuance of a NOC, if not already decided. If a decision is already taken by the Navy, the decision be communicated forthwith. If a decision is not taken, the same be taken in accordance with law within a period of two weeks, and if necessary, by giving an opportunity of a hearing.”
In an earlier hearing, Deputy Solicitor General Pravin Faldessai had submitted that no NOC was granted and that they have intimated to Mormugao Planning Development Authority (MPDA) that the construction activity should be stopped forthwith, a copy of which was forwarded to NHAI as well.
