Residents to Move High Court Against Goa Street Race at Mopa Airport

A group of residents and activists from Pernem has decided to approach the High Court to challenge the State government’s decision to host the “Goa Street Race” at Manohar International Airport, terming the move an illegal and poorly planned commercial use of airport land.

The decision was taken at a meeting held in Dhargal on Sunday, where members of the Kul Mundkar Sangathana and concerned citizens expressed dissatisfaction over the government’s failure to respond to a formal representation submitted more than a week ago.

Residents said repeated attempts to reach the Chief Minister’s Office and the State Civil Aviation Department did not receive any response, prompting them to seek legal recourse.

Pernem resident Bhaskar Narolkar said the risks and shortcomings of holding a motorsport event at an operational airport had been clearly outlined in their submission. “There has been no response from the authorities. This left us with no option but to consult legal experts and move the High Court,” he said.

Narolkar stated that the proposed Indian Racing Festival violates the concession agreement with GMR Goa International Airport Limited, under which the land was acquired exclusively for establishing an international airport for public use. Using the premises for a private racing event, he said, amounts to unauthorised commercial exploitation and a breach of public trust.

Residents also raised concerns over traffic disruption, warning that the event could severely affect movement across Pernem taluka. They criticised the government’s priorities, pointing out that long-pending demands related to healthcare, employment, and basic infrastructure remain unresolved, while over ₹56 crore of public funds is reportedly being spent on a two-day racing event with little benefit to local residents.

“The people of Pernem gain nothing from this event. It is being pushed through at the cost of public safety, convenience, and taxpayer money,” Narolkar said.

As part of their opposition, the Kul Mundkar Sangathana has announced a one-day dharna on February 5, followed by the submission of a memorandum to the Deputy Collector of Pernem. The group also plans to hold awareness meetings across the taluka to mobilise public opinion against the race.

The Formula 4 event, earlier shifted out of Mormugao following public opposition, is now scheduled to be held at the Mopa airport circuit on February 14 and 15.