MAPUSA
In a bid to address the longstanding issue of incessant loud music plaguing the Anjuna-Vagator coastal belt, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has vowed to enforce strict measures to cease such disturbances after 10 pm, giving huge relief to locals who have been bombarded by the deafening music day and night.
Sawant also said that police will be directed to take appropriate action against those playing loud music along the coastal belt beyond the stipulated time.
“I don’t want to give false promises. There won’t be any loud music after 10 pm from today onwards. I will direct the Deputy Collector to completely stop music after 10 pm. The local residents should not suffer because of the menace,” Sawant said.
Acknowledging the need for stringent enforcement, Sawant affirmed that the police would be directed to take decisive action against any violations of the stipulated time limit for playing loud music along the coastal belt.
The chief minister was responding to a local’s complaint about the menace of loud music during the ‘Visksit Bharat’ programme in Anjuna.
He was accompanied by BJP's North Goa candidate Shripad Naik, Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo, Calangute MLA Michael, former minister Dayanand Mandrekar and local panchayat members.
The announcement follows persistent complaints from residents, particularly senior citizens and school children, who have endured the disruptive effects of loud music emanating from various clubs and restaurants along the Anjuna-Vagator coastline.
Despite previous grievances lodged with the authorities, the influential nature of club and restaurant owners often hindered effective intervention.
Furthermore, Sawant emphasised the government's determination to hold tourists accountable for flouting local regulations.
“The tourists will have to follow the norms. We will not allow them to have their way. They will have to strictly follow the rules and face consequences for wrongdoings,” he said.
Asserting the importance of sustainable tourism, Sawant urged all stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the responsible growth of the industry in Goa.
He underscored the government's commitment to invest in coastal infrastructure while emphasising the equitable distribution of benefits among local businesses.
The chief minister's proactive stance against the nuisance of loud music signifies a significant step towards preserving the tranquility of Anjuna-Vagator and fostering a conducive environment for both residents and tourists alike.
