It is for the first time that, due to the pandemic, all the matches of the Indian Super League (ISL) will be held in one single state which happens to be Goa. Though Goan football fans welcome this move, it would however put a strain on the infrastructure available in the state for holding the league which will spread over several months. It would be in the fitness of things for the ISL to benefit local traders and vendors, especially since many Goans have either lost their jobs or seen a fall in their business. The ISL should have come as a God-sent gift for the locals to tide over the bad times. However, it is observed that taxi and bus operators from Goa have been opposing the use of public transport vehicles registered outside the state for transporting players and officials during practice sessions. It is understood that the entire logistic contract related to ISL tournament is handed over to a Bangalore-based agency, while no business is given to local vendors and suppliers. It appears that it is only the hospitality industry that stands to gain from holding the ISL in the state as the hotels are assured of occupancy. However, the benefits need to percolate even to the small-time traders and taxi and bus operators. The Goa government should do justice to the locals by providing them logistic contracts.
