Having a drop facility at the bars is a necessity considering the growth rate of the number of bars and tourists in our state, this change is a must. But, I feel the execution and management will be crucial in Goa as we have different categories of bars & pubs ranging from Elite, affordable to local street side value bars. This is unlike Mumbai, where the alcohol consumption is costly and the category of bars present in Mumbai is majorly leaning towards the elite which makes the implementation and spending on these services easier. Govt subsidies should help the small bars.
Viraj Hede, Executive Chef, Margao
It’s actually sad that there is more support for the drunk tourists of Goa than there is for the safety of Goan women. That is my first and main thought. Also I’m skeptical about the idea with regards to women’s safety as well. I do not like the idea of drunk women being driven home by a complete stranger that’s appointed to do so. It may benefit the safety of tourists in general but I doubt women. Goa also has more important issues to focus on rather than drunk tourists.
Shimron Nathan, Student, Porvorim
From the point of view of safety, it’s a good idea. Recently our state has seen a surge in accidental deaths that arise from drunk driving. Also, stationing drivers would mean a source of income for cabbies as well. We as a state have always been welcoming towards tourism however, during these difficult times of the pandemic, we expect diligence from their end as well.
Ameya Nayak. Asst Professor, V M Salgaocar College of Law, Miramar.
If this or any system which has been practiced anywhere in Mumbai, or anywhere in India, that means you all are going to start it here? In Mumbai even prostitutes can be seen on Mumbai Pune lanes, that means this can also happen in Goa? Where is Goa heading? Tourism runs only on alcohol? There are so many things in goa which are neglected, why is the government is neglecting heritage places? And looks like government is just bothered about alcohol and people who drink alcohol, Goa is a heaven still, please take care of Goa from your heart, we cannot look always in terms of revenue all the time, to get the revenue all the time the first thing we should keep in mind that the Goa our mother land is important first, respect the land first, take care of it and it will take care of everyone
Harish Malvankar, Artist Mulgao
I personally feel that this is a positive initiative. Cutting down on accidents that take place because of drunk drivers is important as these incidents harm the safety of others too on the road. Plus this would further provide more employment opportunities to eligible drivers and create safer roads on its own. Although looking at the flip side, this would give some people a free pass to drink wildly and not take care.
Aryavrat,Student, Vasco
It is a good idea considering how poorly people drive on the roads of Goa. Accidents happen every day and people die. Tourists come over and behave as if this is a no rules zone. This initiative by the government will help reduce instances of accidents due to inebriation. Such an initiative worked wonders in Mumbai. The Mumbai police cracked down hard on people who were driving after having alcohol. Such an initiative would be great in Goa.
Conal Lobo, Entrepreneur, Porvorim
Public Transport needs major improvement in our state; it’s a nightmare to get a cab at odd hours. Having drivers on demand facility would definitely help & potentially save lives by avoiding accidents caused due to drunk driving.
Viresh Vazirani, Entrepreneur, Panjim
It’s a good way of taking care and creating a safe environment for tourists and visitors, this initiative will help Goa be a better place.
Samuel Fernandes, Student, Merces
This is a clear indication of “I’m at my best & God for the rest” & to wash your hands of the responsibility. I feel this will have a negative implication as the one who is a responsible drinker will now become a irresponsible drinker & enjoy to the fullest coz there is someone to take care of the damage done.
Agnes Pinto, Student Vasco.
I think we are trying to take the longer route when there is a perfect shortcut. Just encourage app based taxis as all over India. Then nobody needs to self drive. Just book the taxi and reach home safely.
Dr Lloyd De Souza,Medical professional, Calangute
Goa, as beautiful as it is, has it’s own little quirks. I’m betting the drivers assigned to drive are going to be drunker than the drinkers.
Colin D Cruz, Musician, Sangolda
I feel like this is definitely a good initiative by the government. Living in Goa my whole life, I have surely heard about a fair share of accidents that have taken place due to tourists driving under the influence and since Tourism is a major sector in Goa, we need to ensure that the tourists here have a good experience. Not only will this step make sure the tourists are taken care of, it will also provide a level of safety for us Goans too. It’s a win-win in my opinion.
Shreeya Kudchadkar, Student, Margao
