PANJIM: Panjim residents might soon be able to heave a sigh of relief as the government is set to shift one of the six casinos to Aguada Bay, with an order expected in 8 to 10 days. Ports Minister Michael Lobo said the feasibility report is expected to be completed shortly, after which the government is likely to issue an order shifting one of the casinos to his constituency in Calangute.
“We have heeded to the request made by Panjim MLA (Atanasio Monserrate) and City Mayor (Uday Madkaikar) to shift the casinos out of River Mandovi. One offshore casino owner has agreed to move the vessel. A feasibility study is underway and soon after its report, an order is likely in 8 to 10 days,” he said.
Against the backdrop of Calangute residents opposing to the shifting of the vessel to the coastal stretch, Lobo has urged the people to stand united with the government for a long-term solution. He also reminded the State that casinos were introduced by the (then Congress) government. “There is a solution to every problem and for this issue, there has to be unanimity for a long term solution,” he said adding, “Introducing offshore casinos in River Mandovi was a government decision and suddenly closing this industry is not just, as they are legally operating in Goa.”
