Calls made for controlled consumption of alcohol
Panaji: Goa’s tourism-driven economy makes complete prohibition of alcohol impractical, according to statements from key government figures. In recent remarks, several ministers emphasized the need for controlled consumption rather than an outright ban.
Minister Sudin Dhavalikar said that while alcohol consumption cannot be entirely stopped in a state reliant on tourism, there must be a concerted effort to manage and control it. While, Dr. Chandrakant Shetye said “Everything has to be in limit. Things that are out of control are not good. We should seek alternative solutions to manage alcohol consumption, as banning it is not the answer.”
Meanwhile, Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar shared a personal perspective, noting the severe impact of alcohol on families. While acknowledging the necessity of controlling alcohol consumption, he stressed that an outright ban would be unfeasible for Goa’s tourism sector. He also expressed concerns about gambling, which, like alcohol, poses significant risks.
Premendra’s brother and I used to sit together to drink: Michael Lobo
Panaji: Michael Lobo has voiced strong opposition to proposals for banning alcohol in Goa, emphasizing the potential negative impact on the State’s tourism-dependent economy. In his recent comments, Lobo criticized legislators who support a ban, citing their lack of consideration for the broader economic implications.
“Proposing an alcohol ban in Goa is misguided, especially given that our State’s economy heavily relies on tourism,” Lobo stated. Lobo also referenced a personal connection to underscore his point. “For instance, Premendra Shet’s brother, was a good friend of mine and we used to sit for drink in the past.”
No fun in Goa without alcohol: Jit Arolkar
Panaji: MLA Jit Arolkar has strongly opposed any proposal to ban alcohol in Goa. “No fun in Goa without alcohol. Every household in Goa during celebration or events we serve alcohol. To ban alcohol in Goa is wrong I feel. Even the tourist won’t sit at a beach shack without alcohol,” he said.
He also noted that tourists often enjoy drinks at beach shacks, making alcohol a key part of the tourism experience. Arolkar argued that a ban would be misguided and fail to reflect the realities of Goan culture and tourism.
‘Hander assa chedo and soddta soglo vaddo,’ says Altone
Panaji: MLA Altone D’Costa has accused the BJP government of harbouring a gambler within their ranks. He suggested they should focus on their own members instead of looking outside. “The CM knows who it is, and that’s why he laughed when I mentioned it in the assembly,” D’Costa said.
Fishing ban ends, but start of operations likely to face delays
Panaji: The annual fishing ban in Goa officially ends at midnight tonight. However, the return to fishing operations may be delayed by an additional 7-8 days. Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar has announced that while the fishing ban is ending, many workers have not yet returned, which will postpone the resumption of fishing activities. Minister Halarnkar assured that the Fisheries Department will maintain strict vigilance to prevent illegal LED fishing. In addition, he confirmed that the issue surrounding diesel subsidies for fishing boats has been resolved, which is expected to provide relief to the fishing community.
Govt assures to reopen railway gate No. 18 at Chandor
Panaji: Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao has raised concerns about the permanent closure of Railway Gate No. 18 at Chandor. He highlighted that the closure and construction of an underpass have caused major problems for residents and bus services. The underpass is especially hard to use during the rainy season, making it difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to get through. In response, the Chief Minister promised to instruct the Collector to reopen the gate during the rainy season to help the community.
‘Water mafia’ in the making?
Panaji: Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas has raised significant concerns about Goa’s water and alcohol policies. He questioned whether the government’s diversion of the Mhadei river could lead to severe water shortages and create a “water mafia.” Viegas urged Goans to hold the government accountable, drawing parallels to past controversies like the “formalin mafia.” He accused the State government of repeating past mistakes by prioritising external interests over local needs, especially in granting alcohol licenses.
‘Traffic signals at Merces junction adds to confusion’
Panaji: Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas has raised concerns about the traffic signals at the Merces-St Cruz junction, saying they cause confusion and accidents. Viegas pointed out that the timing and operation of the signals don’t match the traffic flow, leading to frequent incidents at the busy intersection. He also mentioned that Automated Enforcement Systems, which issue fines using AI, are in place but haven’t solved the problems at this junction.
In response to Viegas’s concerns, the Chief Minister has promised to take action. “The traffic signals are set based on traffic flow,” he explained. “I will instruct the Traffic Police Inspector and the Public Works Department to thoroughly inspect the Merces-St Cruz junction. Based on their findings, we will make the necessary changes to improve the situation.”
Speedy approval of proposed parking bay in Vasco sought
Panaji: Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar has highlighted issues with parking along the Shantinagar to Gandhinagar stretch. The problem has resulted in police fines, causing confusion among local residents. Salkar has urged the Chief Minister to speed up the approval of a proposed parking bay, which is currently awaiting approval from the National Highways Authority. The Chief Minister has promised to address the issue quickly to resolve the parking problems and reduce confusion for residents.
