VASCO
Regretting the recent incident with American tourists, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho asserted that taxi drivers are real ambassadors of Goa.
Godinho added that tourists coming to Goa first interact with taxi drivers and their behaviour will create the first and lasting impression.
Godinho speaking after hoisting the national tricolor on the 62nd Goa Liberation Day celebrations at Chicalim also regretted the recent incident involving American tourists and maintained that Goa is known as a peaceful State.
"It is shameful and such untoward incidents will certainly damage the image of Goa, he said. I want to stress the need to learn to live with the new normal. We are competing with the world which has now become global village. Opposing mentality and mistakes will divert the tourists to neighbouring states and it is not far when tourists will start to explore neighbouring Konkan areas if such irresponsible behaviour continues. Tourists on arrival should have their own choice and right to select their mode of transport. I also want to assure that both the airports will be functioning in the State," said Godinho.
Godinho stressing on the responsibility of the people to work with positive thinking stated that Mopa Airport and Zuari Bridge are some of the best infrastructural projects in the State.
" Government is making all efforts to bring better infrastructure projects in the State. Goa will soon emerge as the best logistics hub in the country. The Constitution has given everyone the right of speech and one should definitely oppose but should keep the power to talk about good things happening around us. This will help Goa to be developed as the best State among the Union of States in the country. Goa has been recognized the world over and it is with pride I say that Goa has received India Today award for the best small State in the country," said Godinho.
Godinho also complimented the Central Government for providing funds to develop infrastructure projects through centrally sponsored schemes and thanked the central Government for providing Rs 25,000 crores to build and improve the road network in the State.
MLAs Krishna Daji Salkar and Sankalp Amonkar, Director of Transport Rajan Satardekar, sarpanchas, dy. sarpanchas, panchas were present on the occasion. Cultural programmes were presented by children from various local schools.
Later, Godinho also flagged off the vintage car rally on the occasion and also distributed certificates to the owners of vintage car vehicles for their participation in the event organized by the Director of Transport in association with Goa Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club.
