the goan I network
VASCO
The dreaded conoravirus disease will have a major impact on business and tourism in the State, with the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) on Monday issuing a circular that no foreign cruise ship will be allowed entry into the port at least till March 31.
According to a circular of Trade Notice issued by MPT Dy Chairman G P Rai, the measure has been taken as per a central government directive.
“In view of the coronavirus threat, the central government has decided that no cruise ship from any foreign destination will be allowed to call on Indian Ports.
Hence, MPT will not allow any cruise vessel to enter the port till March 31.”
“This trade notice is for the information of all members of the trade fraternity,
their business associates and stakeholders concerned,” said the notice issued by Rai.
The notice has been forwarded to the Mormugao Stevedores Association and the Mormugao Steamers Agents Association, with a request to circulate among their members and other business associates.
According to MPT sources, there were 10 cruise ships scheduled to arrive at MPT till the end of the season in mid-May, while five of them had been scheduled to arrive in March.
The cancellation of foreign cruise ships into the MPT till March 31 will have a severe impact on business and tourism, especially since each foreign cruise ship typically brings in thousands of passengers and most of them choose to go on sightseeing trips in the State.
The absence of several thousands of foreign tourists would affect the businesses of the MPT, tour operators, taxi/bus services, travel and entertainment companies, handling companies and other agencies.
