PANJIM: With the fortnight-long Shigmo festival slated in March, Tourism Department has stressed on punctuality as it intends to conclude the float parades at 10 pm.
Tourism Minister Manohar Azgaonkar and GTDC Chairman Nilesh Cabral convened a meeting on Wednesday of government representatives, Goa police, traffic police, and municipal bodies to discuss preparations for Shigmo to be celebrated from March 3 to 17, 2018.
The officials deliberated in detail on the float parade schedules, routes and other arrangements. There was a strong emphasis that all parades should start in time and entries be submitted at least eight days in advance. “In order to ensure smooth conduct of the float parade, suggestions were made that Romtamel should start at around 4 pm and the float parades by 6 pm so that all parades conclude latest by 10 pm. It was decided that large trolleys carrying tableaux should not be allowed to move during the day. Incase if required to they could ply via Borim Bridge or in the night,” a press statement says.
A spectacular display of Goan ethnicity and mythology will be on show along with groups of dancers attired in traditional costumes coming from rural areas. The main highlight would be the elaborately built floats depicting scenes from regional mythology and religious scenes.
Committee members also requested the minister to increase the prize money in various categories. Azgaonkar impressed on the committees to ensure smooth conduct of Shigmo parades. The first float parade will be held in Ponda.
