PANJIM: The industrial estates during the first and second wave of COVID-19 had a tough time as the guidelines set by the Union Health Ministry were changing rapidly. This time around when Goa records huge COVID cases, the industry is taking it “as new normal”.
President of the Verna Industries Association Pradip A P da Costa said all MNCs, as well as most of the MSMEs had not diluted the COVID protocols set for first and second wave, and as such the present wave, though highly contagious, has not really impacted the Industry.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
When asked whether there were any behavioural changes in those working in Verna Industrial Estate he said, “Given that COVID protocols are mandated and enforced by the respective organisations, employees have generally adapted very well to the same as a habit and culture. Besides, ICMR protocols have changed drastically this time around on testing, etc, which has eased the process.”
In Verna Industrial Estate there are over 500 manufacturers employing over 15,000 people.
“Fifty per cent working is not really mandated by the government at the moment, but physical distancing is strictly enforced besides wearing of mask as well as sanitising and washing of hands with soap are being observed. Also, work from home is definitely encouraged wherever possible,” the VIA president said.
Mayuresh Dhume, President of Pilerne Industrial Association, which has over 50 firms with about 8000-10000 employees, said, “There is lot of relaxation as this variant is not as potent as we saw in first and second wave. Industries here are taking normal precautions by wearing mask properly, sanitisation and maintaining physical distancing. There is no 50 per cent operation as most people have been doubly vaccinated. Less of hospitalisation is required and the recovery too is fast.”
Kiran Shirsat, president of Kundaim Industrial Estate, which has over 190 firms employing about 5000-7000 people, said, “Everyone is now experienced and there is the less element of surprise. In the past on two occasions we have vaccinated 2500 people in Kundaim Industrial Estate. Also, there are no reports from any industries of serious cases. Most factories here in Kundaim are operating at 50 per cent capacity. Many are working from home now. At the moment things are under control but the business is not doing well.”
