PANJIM: As novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading to all continents (excluding Antarctica as of now), bringing travel and tourism industry to a standstill.

Claiming that Goa is still safe for tourists considering its “humid climate”, Minister for Science & Technology Michael Lobo is also optimistic that tourism in the State will grow as Indians, planning their holidays abroad, will now come to Goa.

“We (Goa) are blessed with this humid climate. It is scientifically stated that it (virus) does not spread in such a climate. Lots of tourists from India, going elsewhere will cancel in the wake of the epidemic globally, and come to Goa,” he informed reporters on the sidelines of a meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant over Excise Tax.

The minister claimed that several Indians who scheduled their trip to countries such as Thailand, China, Italy among others, will route to Goa for holiday. “We will see a rise in Indian tourists and also foreigners,” he added.

The Government of India has suspended visas/e-visa granted to Italy, South Korea, Iran and Japan nationals, who haven’t yet entered India, on or before March 3 while screening of passengers returning from any part of the country has been increased at the airports.

In view of these restrictions, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) also expects rise in tourism.

Lobo, also echoing the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa’s view, said, “Nothing will stop tourists from coming to Goa.”

In the same breath, he asserted that the Narendra Modi-government and Goa government have been taking all measures to ensure the epidemic does not further spread its tentacles in the country.

“As far as Goa is concerned, we are safe… World Health Organisation (WHO)and all health organisations are working to stop the epidemic… India is taking all the required steps and so also Goa government,” he added.