PANAJI
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane chose to play it extremely safe when asked to comment on the government’s decision to grant permissions to the organisers of Sunburn EDM festival to host the event at Vagator Beach from December 27 to 29.
Ironically, Rane stated that Goa has to be prepared as no one can predict when the second wave of Covid pandemic will hit the state.
“It is not my prerogative to comment on another department’s decision. This decision was not taken by the Health Department. It is with caution we should take decisions, such events can cause a spike in the cases.”
“It is the proprietor and people who are stepping out, who should be responsible. Livelihood aspect has to be looked at too. We can’t shut everything and sit at home. What I am suggesting is that you should have strong SOPs and continue.”
“You can have anything as long as you have stringent SOPs in place which will be monitored by the authorities such as the collectors.”
“The management of the event should ensure that the people are safe. There will be guidelines,” Rane stated when asked about his opinion on the state government’s decision to allow Sunburn EDM Festival to take place in Goa this year.
Rane advised people to maintain social distancing, wear face mask and face shield and gloves when they attend the event.
The Health Minister, who was highly critical of the crowds which gathered at some night clubs and high-end restaurants a few weeks ago, brushed aside any responsibility by arguing that it is the State Disaster Management Authority which will issue SOPs to Sunburn organisers and that the Tourism Department which will ensure compliances.
“All I can do is request the CM to ensure that the SOPs are strict and the organizers should be penalized if these are not followed,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Health Minister has also asked Goans to be alert and prepared for the second wave of the Covid pandemic. “We have to be ready. No one can predict how the spike will come. We as Department of Health are keeping all our systems and mechanisms in place to prepare for any eventuality,” he stated.
