Tag: Mopa Airport

Travel

GCCI Seeks Alternative Route on NH-66 for Smooth Movement of Air Cargo; North Goa Collector Responds Positively

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has taken up the urgent issue of restricted movement of heavy commercial vehicles on NH-66, which has been adversely affecting air cargo operations to Goa International Airport, Dabolim, and Manohar International Airport, Mopa.


A GCCI delegation comprising Mr. Chandrakant Gawas, Chairman – GCCI Logistics Committee; Mr. Sanjay Amonkar, Director General, GCCI; Foreign Trade Officer Mr. Sanket Kaskar, GCCI; along with representatives from GMR, Mr. Purshottam and Mr. Satyajeet, met Mr. Ankit Yadav, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate, North Goa, to discuss the operational challenges faced by exporters and importers due to traffic restrictions and ongoing infrastructure works on NH-66.

During the meeting, GCCI highlighted the severe difficulties faced by six-wheeler and above commercial vehicles transporting time-sensitive air cargo, particularly from key industrial estates. The restrictions have significantly impacted sectors such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, and e-commerce, where strict adherence to flight cut-off timings is critical.

GCCI requested the notification and opening of an alternative route on NH-66 to ensure uninterrupted daytime movement of heavy commercial vehicles, smooth connectivity to Manohar International Airport, Mopa, removal of abandoned vehicles obstructing traffic, and prevention of garbage dumping along the highway.

The delegation also drew attention to the increasing number of accidents on the Porvorim road amid ongoing infrastructure works. GCCI urged the deployment of dedicated traffic police personnel, stricter speed monitoring, improved road signage, creation of dedicated lanes where feasible, and awareness initiatives to promote safer road usage.

Emphasizing the need for stronger logistics infrastructure, GCCI called for the establishment of designated truck termini in both North and South Goa to address traffic congestion and unregulated parking. The Chamber further highlighted the issue of indiscriminate garbage dumping along highways, posing hygiene and safety risks, and sought stricter enforcement and improved waste management measures.

Additionally, GCCI requested stricter traffic regulation on the Dayanand Bandodkar Road from Divja Circle to the ferry point, where continuous traffic congestion is observed due to irregular parking and traffic rule violations. The Chamber also informed the Collector about rent-a-car vehicles and taxis occupying parking spaces in city areas, inconveniencing citizens visiting for work, and sought strict action against such violations.

Responding positively, Mr. Ankit Yadav, IAS, assured the delegation that the concerns raised would be examined in coordination with the concerned departments to arrive at a practical and workable solution. The proposed measures are expected to ease congestion and ensure smooth movement of goods to the GMR-operated Manohar International Airport, Mopa, thereby strengthening Goa’s air cargo ecosystem.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Chandrakant Gawas, Chairman – GCCI Logistics Committee, stated that improved logistics connectivity is crucial for sustaining Goa’s competitiveness in exports and trade. GCCI also expressed its willingness to participate in joint inspections or surveys to identify the most feasible alternative routes.

The initiative is expected to bring significant relief to exporters, manufacturers, MSMEs, and logistics operators, reinforcing Goa’s position as a reliable hub for trade and air cargo movement.

Travel

Charter Flights from Russia and Central Asia Boost International Tourist Inflow to Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa witnessed a significant boost in international tourist arrivals with the arrival of multiple charter flights from key global markets, reinforcing the state’s growing air connectivity during the peak holiday season. On 30 December 2025, a Nordwind Airlines charter flight from Moscow landed in Goa with 360 passengers, followed by another Nordwind charter from Yekaterinburg on 31 December carrying 373 passengers. Adding to this momentum, Fly Arystan operated a charter flight from Astana on 30 December, bringing 176 passengers from the Central Asian region.

Welcoming the arrivals, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, highlighted that the steady inflow of charter flights from Russia and Central Asia reflects increasing international confidence in Goa as a preferred holiday destination. He emphasised that strengthening air connectivity remains central to the state’s vision of promoting quality tourism while ensuring seamless and enriching visitor experiences.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, noted that charter operations play a vital role in sustaining international arrivals and diversifying source markets. He stated that the Department of Tourism continues to work closely with airlines, airport authorities, and tourism stakeholders to facilitate smooth operations and expand Goa’s reach across both established and emerging global markets.

Through focused and strategic tourism initiatives, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, remains committed to enhancing international connectivity, broadening its tourist base, and positioning Goa as a year-round global destination.

Travel

Almaty Charter Service Begins with First Seasonal Flight Arrival at Mopa Airport

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Panaji, December 26, 2025: Continuing the steady inflow of international tourists this season, the first seasonal charter flight from Almaty, Kazakhstan, arrived at Manohar International Airport (MOPA) on December 26, 2025, at 10:25 a.m. The flight, operated by Fly Arystan, carried 174 passengers, further strengthening Goa’s international tourism footprint.

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, extended a warm and traditional welcome to the arriving passengers with rose buds and a lively brass band performance outside the arrival terminal, offering visitors a glimpse of Goa’s renowned hospitality and vibrant culture.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan Ashok Khaunte, highlighted the importance of expanding global air connectivity, stating that engaging new international source markets and encouraging seasonal charter operations are vital for Goa’s planned and sustainable tourism growth. He noted that the commencement of charter services from Almaty reflects increasing global confidence in Goa as a preferred travel destination.

Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the arrival of the first Almaty charter flight marks a valuable addition to the season’s international charter operations, helping maintain consistent tourist inflows throughout the peak travel period.

The seasonal charter service from Almaty is expected to further boost international arrivals and support balanced tourism development across Goa during the ongoing tourist season.

Travel

Direct Flights from Uzbekistan Resume, Boosting Goa’s Global Connectivity

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s international tourism landscape received a significant boost with the resumption of direct flights from Uzbekistan. On December 3, an A-320 aircraft arrived at Manohar International Airport, Mopa from Tashkent with 121 passengers, symbolizing renewed connectivity and the strengthening of ties between the two destinations.

This development reinforces Goa’s appeal as a preferred global travel hotspot and enhances convenience for visitors from Central Asia. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, highlighted that the restored route amplifies Goa’s international connectivity and contributes to the state’s ongoing efforts to expand into new global markets. He emphasized that such initiatives pave the way for seamless travel and deeper engagement between regions. Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, stated that the renewed connection reflects the trust that global partners continue to place in Goa’s tourism potential.

According to him, it improves outreach efforts and offers visitors from Uzbekistan easier access to Goa’s culture, festivals, and diverse experiences. With the reinstated service, Goa strengthens its focus on cultural exchange, leisure travel, and future collaborations. This milestone aligns with the state’s larger vision of broadening its international footprint through sustained partnerships and targeted global promotions.

The return of direct flights marks a promising chapter in Goa’s evolving tourism growth story, enhancing accessibility while inviting more international travelers to discover the state’s unique charm.

Travel

GCCI Agri Committee Leads Delegation to Mopa International Airport to Boost Mango Export Potential

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

The GCCI Agriculture Committee undertook an important outreach initiative on 21 November 2025 with a high-level delegation to the Cargo Facility at Manohar International Airport, Mopa. This visit aimed to explore opportunities for facilitating large-scale mango exports from Goa and the neighboring regions of Karnataka, particularly Dharwad. The delegation included Chairman Mahesh Patil, Committee Members Pandurang Patil and Dr. Suresh Kunkalikar, and GCCI Deputy Director Ms. Ambika Dhakhenkar. GCCI has been at the forefront of promoting trade and export opportunities in Goa for decades and played a significant role since the 1990s in advocating for the establishment of a second airport with robust cargo capabilities.

A visit by representatives of Mavu Belegarar Balaga, Dharwad, brought valuable insights into the region’s potential. Led by Executive Member Dr. Rajendra Poddar and President Shri Subhas Akalwadi, the group shared their vision of tapping international markets such as Singapore, the Middle East, and Europe. They highlighted that nearly 60,000 acres are under mango cultivation in their region, with half located in the Dharwad belt. Their first export shipment last year had to travel 8.5 hours to Chintamani, while Mopa Airport offers a significantly shorter four-hour route. The growers emphasised the advantages of reduced transit time, lower damage risks, and improved logistics efficiency. They also presented the region’s achievements including the establishment of an APEDA-approved packhouse created through central government support, which has strengthened storage and handling of perishable produce.

During the visit, Mr. Purushottam Thakur, Cargo Logistics Head at GMR Mopa, delivered an extensive presentation on current and upcoming facilities designed to support export operations, especially for perishable commodities. The delegation was taken through the cargo terminal and briefed on developments such as the fully integrated, multi-commodity APEDA-approved packhouse spanning 5,600 sq. metres with a 100-tonne daily capacity, set to be operational by April 2026. Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Goa, and APEDA, this packhouse will enhance export operations for farmers in Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. It will also offer storage options for unsold produce, enabling redirection to domestic markets through 29 Indian destinations connected to GOX, thereby reducing risks associated with international shipment rejections.

Mr. Thakur further outlined upcoming initiatives including Tier II warehousing, an in-house Customs office, and a Plant Quarantine facility. He also highlighted the potential for multi-modal logistics through Mormugao Port and ICD Balli once the packhouse becomes functional. The Dharwad Mango Growers Group invited the GMR team to present these opportunities to growers in their region, to which Mr. Thakur assured full cooperation, noting possibilities for daily mango export truckloads and expansion into other high-value agricultural products such as Bijapur lemons, pomegranates, and guavas.

The visit reinforced the belief that every progressive FPO or grower group has the potential to become an exporter—aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to double farmer incomes. GCCI expressed deep appreciation to GMR’s cargo team, particularly Mr. Purushottam Thakur, and acknowledged the Dharwad Mango Growers Group for their initiative in considering Goa as a gateway to global markets. As Goa’s economy looks beyond tourism and mining, the GCCI Agriculture Committee is advocating the state’s strategic potential to evolve into the Logistics Hub of Western India for agri-exports, supported by strong road connectivity, the expanding capabilities of Mormugao Port, and world-class infrastructure at Mopa Airport. GCCI remains committed to fostering collaborations that can strengthen Goa’s role in global agricultural trade and provide lasting economic benefits to farmers and agri-entrepreneurs.