Goa COVID update: Lockdown to continue at tourist hotspots

Given the current COVID-19 situation in the country, the government of Goa has decided to continue with lockdown at all the prominent tourist hotspots, including Calangute and Candolim regions in North Goa. Though the government has lifted the lockdown in several other parts of the state, the lockdown will continue at the prime tourist spots in Goa, informed the Ports Minister Michael Lobo on Monday.

Apparently, last Thursday, the beach state recorded over 50 per cent COVID test positivity rate. Soon after this on April 29, the state government imposed the lockdown that was lifted on Monday. Now, the authorities have decided to continue the lockdown in the tourism belt of North Goa district to break the virus chain. The Minister told PTI, "We are going to continue a strict lockdown in the villages of Calangute, Candolim and Arpora-Nagoa". An order was given to the panchayats of these extremely popular tourist regions that the lockdown will continue.
The local administration will ensure availability of essential commodities for those living in these regions to make sure that the rules are being followed. As of now, there are 1611 active cases in these regions alone, according to the state health directorate.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday said that the lockdown will remain in force till May 10. All the commercial hubs will remain closed during this period. Also, no political or social gatherings will be permitted.