Does Corona follow the calendar? So why were masks off on New Year’s Eve

As people prepared to welcome the New Year, many were seen walking about without masks on the beach and other public spaces. Whilst the rest of the country was battling with the virus and placing restrictions on flights, Goa seemed to be operating in a different time frame. Did the people think the virus was no longer a problem? Was that the case, Café spoke to various people to gauge reactions?

Goa opened its doors to everyone after a lockdown that was imposed nationally. People streamed in numbers, relieved to get away from the congestion of the big cities.  People generally followed the rules but there was a significant segment that ignored it all and they were around in large numbers as the world prepared to say bye to a terrible year especially in places like Baga. They seemed to be behaving as if they were unaware that a virus was still running rampant.    

They party here and don’t even wear masks as they feel uncomfortable to party with their masks on. They don’t understand that by doing this they aren’t just putting themselves at risk but also others around them. The virus isn’t eliminated yet and it won’t take long enough that we experience its second stage. People should have kept this in mind and avoided exposing themselves and others to the possibility of contracting the virus.

Kunal Kunkolienkar, Student

Shocking behaviour. I only pray that this will not lead to an increase in positive cases again. Even more disappointing was the behaviour of the cops. None were pulled up for not maintaining the SOPs but cops were busy stopping tourist on bikes & everyone knows why.

Earnest Dias, Professional in the Hospitality industry

After 9 months of the pandemic curse and with a much worse strain insight ahead all I  can say is it was sheer arrogance looking at the pictures and videos of people celebrating. It is hard to believe these people are unaware of the crisis. The chalta hai attitude is one of the roadblocks towards a civilized nation. Blaming and criticizing the government won’t help. We need to act responsibly.

Roy  Student  

This has been the most reckless and irresponsible behaviour by people in recent times. It was not only on 31st but has been happening right through the months of November December. Not only at events & parties, but beaches and other public places all SOP’s were flouted. The state and its people could pay dearly for this. Time will tell if we see another spike further burdening the health care workers and infrastructure. Yes, Goa depends on tourism but the government should have made sure those visiting the state or event organisers follow all the sops. It shouldn’t just be on paper. All our hard work over the past 10 months could go down the drain in an instant with this irresponsible I care a damn behaviour of those partying.

Kabir Pinto Makhija Former Deputy Mayor  

The Government is doing nothing and its a shame to know all the borders are open. Being from the aviation industry I know seen people flocking into Goa to celebrate these times. If there is a surge of cases then who is responsible. Yes, I’m assuming Corona has a calendar specifically in Goa.

Vaisa Dias  Professional in the Aviation industry 

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