Pernem: Residents of Pernem have decided to approach the High Court to challenge the government’s decision to allow Formula 4 street circuit race at Mopa airport. The decision was taken at a meeting held at Dhargal to protest against the event.
The meeting was organised under the banner of Mopa Pidit Jana Sanghatna Pedne and was led by Bhaskar Narulkar and Uday Mahale. Speakers said the government had failed to respond to a formal complaint submitted a week earlier seeking intervention.
“We have submitted a memorandum at the office of the Chief Minister as well as the Civil Aviation Department. However, our plea has been ignored, leaving us with no other option than knocking on the door of the judiciary,” said Narulkar.
Referring to the contents of the memorandum, Narulkar said that had specifically pointed out violation of the agreement by GMR Goa International Airport Limited (GGIAL). “The land was acquired by the government for the sole purpose of establishing an international airport for public utility. Using the premises for a commercial event like the Indian Racing Festival is illegal and a breach of public trust,” he said. Narulkar said that holding the event at the site would lead to traffic congestion and added that locals would not benefit from it in any way. “It is a commercial exploitation of our land,” Narulkar said.
He also said residents wanted employment and proper health services, but alleged that instead of prioritising people’s needs, the government was spending almost Rs 56 crore to organise the private event.
