PANJIM: In a major decision driven by demands from industrial players, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant on Monday declared that the State borders, which were sealed on March 22 and then opened with restrictions, would open once again for free movement of people.
The Chief Minister also announced that bars and restaurants would also re-open, which could well signal the restart of the tourism industry. The Chief Minister also said that the Indian Super League (ISL) and the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) would go on as announced without spectators. It was also decided to allow opening of spa/massage parlours.
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“We will follow the MHA guidelines on Unlock 4.0 from tomorrow, September 1. The movement of people will be unrestricted and tests would not be compulsory,” he said. international air/sea passengers will, however, have to compulsorily undergo testing.
He also said that the bars & restaurants will be open with strict monitoring. “Citizens must strictly follow social distancing, masks and use sanitisers,” he added.
He also had a word of caution for religious places saying they have to also follow the social distancing and mask norms.
Though he announced the support for NEET & JEE exams the Chief Minister was non-committal on restarting education institutions. “We will have to wait till September 21, for MHA’s next order,” he said.
Sawant also criticized the Opposition for twisting his comments on Ganesh Chaturthi saying they have become prone to creating unnecessary controversy.
