PANJIM: Even though around 1.09 lakh citizens dependent on tourism are rendered jobless due to the COVID-19 lockdown, Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar says tourism cannot start in present scenario.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat, Ajgaonkar said that people want the business to start. “…but under present circumstances, it is very difficult to start tourism,” he said.
He said during the Cabinet meeting some people have opined that tourism must start.
“As per our survey last time 90 lakh people came to Goa, including 10 lakh foreigners due to aggressive marketing by the Tourism Department. The national surveys put the figures at around 1.6 crore,” he said.
Ajgaonkar said that with the lockdown bringing businesses to a grinding halt many have been left jobless.
“Around 1.09 lakh, who were dependent on tourism are now jobless. There were suggestions that by testing we must allow tourists,” he said.
Replying to a query, he said the government has to permit restaurants with social distancing.
“I think with social distancing restaurants may start. How much patience can we have. We don’t know when COVID-19 vaccine will come. People’s livelihood is at stake,” he said.
He also maintained that State cannot have tourists at cost of life.
“There are many people in the country who would want to come to Goa as it is green zone and safe zone. We will have to take the correct decision,” he said.
He opined that tourists can be allowed with proper tests if at all it starts.
