It’s time to get out of Covid obsession: Minister

Tourists have started making a beeline to the State and are having fun as the threat of Covid-19 infection has reduced, said Ports Minister, Michael Lobo and suggested that it was time for Goans to come out of the Covid fixation and get involved in activities and celebrate.

“The situation of Covid is good in Goa. Tourists are coming and having a ball of a time…going to clubs and partying. If that is allowed then people in Goa should also be allowed to hold their traditional and cultural programmes. The Union government has also issued permission to allow charter flights to land in Goa,” Lobo said, while announcing plans to organize the annual All Goa Akash Kandil contest in Parra.

“Some businessmen have cautiously started their ventures. People who are into traditional business should also resume work. Most of our Goans are vaccinated. We need to come out of this Covid fixation or else we will be stuck there only,” he added. He, however, hastened to add on the need of taking necessary precautions and to follow all Covid-related guidelines.

“The Covid wave that struck Goa has died down but we have to be careful. We will ensure that those who come for the presentation at the akash kandil contest compulsorily wear masks. All those who are fully vaccinated can come and participate in the event,” he said.

Just a week ago, the GMC dean and chairperson of the Covid-19 expert committee, Dr S M Bandekar had said people must comply with the SOPs when pointed out about the rush of tourists who fail to maintain Covid-related protocols in the State.

The Covid wave that struck Goa has died down but we have to be careful. We will ensure that those who come for the presentation at the akash kandil contest compulsorily wear masks