PANAJI
Promoting small local businesses, especially during the peak season, has been widely discussed by the government. But here’s an example of how one such business -- that of a local restaurateur -- is on the verge of collapse. The culprit? The booming music scene in Vagator, which is driving away guests seeking a relaxing backdrop.
Meet Rita Ali, whose livelihood is hanging by a thread owing to the deafening music that has robbed her restaurant of its clientele. Located in a quiet corner of the village, this once-thriving eatery -- serving French and North African cuisine -- has witnessed a sharp decline in the number of daily customers.
There was a time when families and foreign visitors spent leisurely moments over their meals. However, Rita recalls that after the Covid-19 pandemic, the clubs/ pubs have suddenly mushroomed and noise pollution escalated.
“Not all tourists come to Goa to party. There are several who look for a quiet place. I had people spending quality time enjoying their meals but the scene changed from the pandemic days. The loud music played at these establishments has gradually taken away clients,” Rita, who runs the hub with her French husband, lamented.
The restaurant now stands as a testament to the challenges faced by local businesses in the wake of changing dynamics with authorities allegedly not paying heed to these problems.
Not her alone but one of her friends disclosed a similar predicament, stating that his eatery outlet is currently getting only countable customers.
Rita alleged that the “non-Goan” club owners have turned a deaf ear to villagers’ pleas to lower the volume or end the musical show after the permissible timing. The bitter fact is that most of these premises are leased out by Goan property owners, lured by huge profits.
The upcoming surge in events from December 24 has now raised concerns, as Rita fears that shows in open spaces will vibrate the entire village to a dangerous level.
In addition to numerous families grappling with this ordeal, she further pointed out an instance in her neighbourhood where a family lost three members within a year, due to relentless loud music. “One was an elderly woman, and two were unwell, and needed complete rest. It was impossible because no club owners were or are still willing to lower the volume,” she revealed.
While this is the state of the village during the peak season, on ordinary days, the music commences at 10 pm on weekdays and 8 pm on weekends.
“I have sent my daughters out of Goa to pursue their further studies. If they remain in the village, their future will be at stake,” she added determined to continue the fight against noise pollution.
