Panaji, Aug 11 (IANS): Union Minister of State for Tourism and Ports Shripad Naik said on Wednesday that work for the Mopa airport was delayed due to court cases, but it will be completed in another two to three months.

"There are many reasons for the delay in completion of Mopa airport work. Since the acquisition of land, cases (were fought) in the high court and Supreme Court. There was also a stay. Now 98 per cent work has been completed. In another two to three months, the entire work will be completed," Naik said.

"Mopa airport will be one of the best airports in India. I thank all those who have given land for this airport and those who supported the project," he said.

"The future of the state's economy also lies with the Mopa airport, which will boost tourism. The defence airport in Dabolim airport is not sufficient for us and hence we needed this airport," Naik said.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had recently said that inauguration of Mopa airport has been delayed, which was supposed to take place between August 15 and 30.