CALANGUTE/Margao: Traffic has been severely hit in the coastal villages of Calangute as thousands of people from across the State have converged to celebrate the New Year. Vehicles moved at a snail’s pace on the main roads of Calangute, inconveniencing the locals.
While, traffic police did a splendid job of controlling the traffic, diversions at certain places caused confusion amongst people who were unfamiliar with the village.
At few other places along the coastal belt, rash and negligent driving by tourists was a cause of worry for the pedestrians and two-wheeler riders. Tourists, either with rented vehicles or with their own outstation vehicles, were seen driving with liquor bottles in their hands. A number of drunk drivers were stopped by the locals and threatened with severe action if they continued to drive in recklessly.
At Calangute, tourist buses were parked along the road leading to Calangute-Saligao, inconveniencing pedestrians. Outstation vehicles have also been increasing manifold, and people are hoping that they do not get caught up in traffic jams for hours together, especially with Sunburn being held in Calangute. Meanwhile, South Goa police have geared up for a long weekend of vigil as Goa enters into celebration mode for New Year’s. Deputy Superintendent of Police Dinraj Govenkar informed that patrolling has been increased to a great extent to keep a check on untoward activities. He said, “We have increased the patrolling staff for Margao and adjoining areas to over 300, which includes night patrol by motorcycles, four-wheelers and also foot patrolling. These personnel are armed and have been given area-specific orders for patrolling.”
Police have also introduced special patrolling in areas that need it the most. Regarding traffic preparedness, the Margao Police Inspector has informed that traffic personnel will be deployed to all churches on the night of December 31. He added, “The Margao traffic cell has additional staff for efficient traffic management.” In view of the parking problems at Colva beach, the traffic cell will prevent vehicles from entering the front parking area of the beach. The police have fitted ramps over the sides of the Colva ground and will direct vehicles to park there.
Additionally, the police have advised people to keep their valuables in bank lockers and take them out only when required as a step to prevent thefts. They have also advised the people not to entertain unknown couriers and delivery persons or persons soliciting donations for charitable causes, and to seek for identification from such people.
