As we review and take stock of the happenings during the year 2024 , one can say with a certain amount of certainty that life for the common man in Goa was neither fulfilling nor satisfying, on the economic and political fronts. Besides the ever increasing spurt in the prices of essential commodities that have burned a hole in the common man's pocket , we have witnessed unprecedented unemployment and an unending series of scams such as the 'jobs for cash scam, land grabbing scam, development scams, escape from jail with involvement of police official , etc, and the lackadaisical attitude and unkept promises by the Goa government. The number of foreign tourists has also seen a sharp drop in numbers due to high hotel room rates, unaffordable taxi fares , and poor hygiene on beaches. Projects like the Panaji Smart City project and the elevated Porvorim corridor are bringing hardship and misery to the local people, with traffic chaos and dust pollution. The condition of Goa roads is no better with un-repaired potholes proving dangerous to motorists. We hope that New year 2025 brings happiness and cheer to all in Goa.
