PANAJI
“We gave not received any applications yet. But when we do, the government will ensure that EDM festivals are not held simultaneously and that they are held before or after the peak season of December 25 to 31,” he said. Parulekar further explained that if the government receives applications from different organisers for the same dates, it will direct them to consult each other and select dates that do not overlap. Parulekar stated that availability of venue continues to remain an issue. “Goa Tourism Development Corporation has invited tenders and Request For Quotation from individuals who have such large venues.” Tourism Minister brushed aside the suggestion to shift EDM festivals to South Goa stating that it is only the Northern district and it s coastal belt that form a major chunk of the audience at such
festivals. “EDM festivals can succeed only in North Goa,” he opined. Meanwhile, Parulekar also said that the multi-level parking facility reared in Panaji is likely to be inaugurated by end of June. Around 97 per cent of the work is completed and only installation of two lifts is pending. “We are importing the two Sheldor lifts from abroad and only that is taking time,” the minister said. Speaking about reduction number of charters, Parulekar stated, “Charters have gone down only due to the introduction of e-visa facility. Tourists can now avail visas easily within 15 minutes,” he said.
