Team Herald
Mapusa: With the sudden rise in number positive cases in Goa, Port Minister Michael Lobo stated trains should not be allowed to halt in Goa on an immediate basis.
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“The State government gave permissions for trains to halt in Goa due to which, a large number of Goans as well as migrants who entered Goa – were found to be COVID-positive. With the sudden rise in cases, it’s a major concern for the government. Now Goans who were stranded outside are already here, while the remaining will come via chartered flights,” said Lobo, while elaborating on why trains should stop.
He warned that failure to do so will mean that Goans as well as Indians from red zones will try to come to Goa as the State is in a green zone and it’s safe for them,” Lobo added.
The Calangute MLA further added that if the trains continue to halt in Goa then there is a need for the State to be prepared adequately to treat more positive cases.
“The COVID hospital will have to be expanded. Also there are limited doctors, nurses and other facilities that are required in such a scenario,” Lobo added.
Meanwhile, huge crowds of migrant labourers were witnessed in Calangute. They were trying to get themselves registered for transport facilities being arranged for migrant labouers seeking to head back to their native States.
Against this backdrop, Lobo spoke about the situation arising due to West Bengal closing its borders. He added that trains should also be arranged to West Bengal and Odisha as there are hundreds of natives working in the hospitality industry in Goa, who are stranded here and are desperate to head back home.
He pointed out that their numbers cross 1,500 but as of now, no train has left for West Bengal or Odisha.
“I request the Chief Minister to further have a word with the North Collector and the other officials concerned so that the necessary arrangements are made in the next five days. Otherwise, we will have to arrange for buses for these people to go back to their States. The shack owners association is ready to pay for the tickets of their workers”, Lobo said
“These migrants cannot stay here anymore and because of that, they are running here and there. Also, they are scared thinking that there are no more job opportunities since the tourism industry has shut and the construction industry is almost at a halt. If these people are not sent now, then there are chances that their States won’t allow them to come back once the State is declared as a red zone,” the Minister added.
