VASCO: The area around INS Hansa in Dabolim wore a deserted look as shops and other establishments closed in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the State on Thursday. High-security arrangements were put in place, leading to inconvenience for locals and commuters. The entire route was closed for vehicular traffic to ensure the smooth passage of the Prime Minister’s convoy, causing traffic congestion in the vicinity of Dabolim Airport.
Media personnel were also kept away from the entire route as part of the stringent security measures. Shopkeepers were instructed to close their establishments from 2.30 pm until the Prime Minister left for the national capital.
This directive led to discontent among business owners.
Former Mormugao MLA Karl Vaz, who runs a shop near INS Hansa, expressed dissatisfaction with the situation. He questioned the lack of proper communication between the administration, police, and the affected business owners. “Had the order been passed that along with the road, establishments too have to be shut, then it would have been a different story. There was a miscommunication on the part of the administration and the police or the administration took their own decision to close the shops. Why was no notification issued for the closure of shops and establishments?” questioned Vaz.
“The elected government must please the people and not pinch them,” said Vaz.
