PANJIM: The State government has decided to hold a review of the COVID-19 situation in the State and consultations with stakeholders before implementing the Unlock-5 guidelines, which permit re-opening of the entertainment sector and schools after October 15. The Union Ministry for Home Affairs has given States the flexibility to decide on implementing Unlock-5.
Speaking to media persons, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said the government is yet to take a decision on allowing casinos to resume operations. Schools and casinos have been shut since mid-March in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per the Unlock-5 guidelines, States and Union Territories can decide on whether to open schools from October 15.
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“Under new guidelines, government has opened up all the activities. In Goa, only entertainment section and schools are closed. Decision on it will be taken after a review of the COVID situation and in consultation with stakeholders,” Sawant said.
He said that in some schools, students have already started consulting with teachers, in a staggered manner. “With regards to full-fledged opening of schools, we will hold consultation with schools and PTAs,” the chief minister said.
Responding to a question on allowing operations of casinos, Sawant said that though they have received the representation, the government is yet to take a decision. “The decision on casinos will be also taken shortly,” he said.
Addressing the inaugural of the Wildlife Week, Sawant urged the Forest Department to work towards promoting tourism activities in the State’s wild, thereby attracting more visitors.
“We have already promoted eco-tourism, hinterland tourism, now it’s time to promote wildlife tourism. We have to encourage activities in forest and wildlife areas, so that the people living there get support for their living,” he said. “The locals should get economic benefit,” the chief minister added.
