PANAJI
Goa is witnessing extra rush on its roads and beaches as holidaymakers from foreign countries and tourists from across the country are arriving in the State in large numbers to usher in Christmas and New Year.
Hotels in the State are almost to near capacity, hospitality industry sources said. The government's decision not to impose any Covid-19-related restrictions has also helped the mood.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday clarified that the State will not impose any pandemic-related restriction till January 2, 2023, but appealed people to take precautions on their own.
Dabolim international airport also recorded an uptick in passenger movement. The upward trend indicated a jam-packed tourist season in the State in the upcoming days.
The peak of Goa's tourism is the week between Christmas and New Year when tourists from across the country throng the State for celebrations.
Moreover, ease in Covid restrictions this year, the ongoing wedding season, and a significant rise in the number of tourists have also contributed to the increase in the passenger traffic at the airport.
A number of beach-side parties and New Year bashes at nightclubs and other event venues have been planned adding to the excitement in the coastal areas.
President of Travel and Tours Association of Goa (TTAG) Nilesh Shah was upbeat, saying “We are looking at an overall positive season this year. Tourists have arrived in the state for Christmas and New Year celebrations”.
Hotels have more than 90 per cent occupancy for Christmas while they are almost sold out for New Year, he said.
Sawant's announcement that there would be no Covid-19 restrictions till January 2 also helped the tourism industry, he added.
The police department, meanwhile, is on its toes. Sawant, who also holds the home portfolio, held a meeting of high-ranking officials recently.
Crowded roads and traffic jams were a common sight in several parts of the State, despite efforts by the men in uniform to control the mess.
Superintendent of Police Abhishek Dhania conducted a police march in the main cities and towns of South Goa district including Margao. A similar march was conducted by Superintendent of Police Nidhin Valsan in North Goa district.
