30k MT in air cargo transportation is expected by Mopa

GMR Airports, which runs GMR Goa International Airport Limited (GGIAL), the airport in Mopa, is placing a significant wager on air freight transit via Goa, especially for perishable and pharmaceutical items. The state generates about 46,000 metric tonnes of cargo annually, of which GGIAL hopes to capture 65% in the next two to four years. Experts did note that, in order to fully realise the promise of air freight transportation, infrastructure, enabling regulatory frameworks, and a well-defined talent development plan are necessary. Thakur Purshottam Singh, the business head for air cargo at GGIAL, mentioned that they had projected handling 30,000 metric tonnes in Phase I. He also noted that the remaining cargo needs could be managed by the port and the inland container terminal constructed by Konkan Railway. Manohar International Airport commenced air cargo operations on September 8 and has handled 3,000 metric tonnes of international cargo and 2,000 metric tonnes of domestic cargo. Due to its proximity to the Maharashtra-Karnataka border, the airport serves all three states and has the potential to become the second largest air cargo hub in Western India. Singh, who spoke to TOI after assuming the role of chairman of Air Cargo Forum India?s Goa chapter, expressed optimism about infrastructure development on expandable land parcels available at the airport. He highlighted Goa's prospects in the logistics sector, stating, "The cargo volume has increased drastically, as many pharma companies from Goa and the Mumbai area have utilised the facility and commenced cargo operations." A stakeholder from the air cargo sector confirmed the growth, mentioning, "Singh, who has two decades of experience in the air cargo and aviation industries, emphasised that the lack of a skilled workforce could hinder sectoral growth. He stressed the importance of skilling, stating, "Skilling is one area where we are lacking. Logistics has the potential to generate jobs in IT, transportation, and other sectors, creating new employment opportunities that will benefit Goa."

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