Goa Won't Enforce Strict Health Protocols on Tourists, Says Minister

Tourism in Goa has witnessed a surge after the vaccines rolled out. 

Though many places are now accepting vaccinated tourists, several states still ask for negative RT-PCR reports. The situation can become especially tricky in places that are tourist magnets. There have been instances of entire countries - like Venice - objecting to the influx of tourists. 

In Goa, complaints were received that tourists were not following the travel advisories laid down by the health ministry to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  

Responding to these, Michael Lobo, Port Minister of Goa, said that Goa is getting its GST currently through tourism and enforcing strict SOPs over the tourists will hinder tourism in the state. He stated that every tourist entering the state is mandated to present a negative RT-PCR report and advised to take precautionary measures.

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He also said that people are now travelling for leisure within India in spite of rising COVID&mdash19 cases and enforcing strict health measures would deter tourists from coming in for holidays.  

He further added that Section 144 does not apply to tourists and the imposing of section&nbsp144 had nothing to do with tourism.

He expressed his concerns towards the youth employed in the field of tourism who would be forced to sit at homes in case the tourist numbers drop in Goa. If this happens then the state would have to handle pandemic and unemployment crises simultaneously, he said.