The upcoming Damodar Saptah in Vasco will reportedly be insured for the first time in 126 years. In the process Mormugao Municipal Council has become the first civic body in the state to provide insurance coverage for a festival within its jurisdiction.
It is learnt that the decision was arrived at as a safety measure, especially in the light of tragedies like stampede during the Lairai Jatra, which claimed six lives and left dozens injured.
In Goa huge crowds are seen at the fairs that come up during the feast of St. Francis Xavier at Old Goa and Holy Spirit feast at Margao besides numerous Jatras held across the state.
It would also be in the fitness of things for the government to make insurance coverage mandatory for major festivals and events, where huge crowds are expected.
