Team Goemkarponn
CALANGUTE: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo voiced serious concerns over the rising incidents of drunken driving and public drinking among tourists, attributing the problem to liquor shops operating beyond their legally permitted hours in the coastal areas.
Speaking at a press briefing, Lobo highlighted that numerous retail and wholesale liquor outlets in Calangute remain open until 2 or 3 am, despite regulations mandating closure by 10 pm.
“Excise officials are failing to carry out inspections, and no shop has faced suspension. This is a dark side of tourism that is damaging Goa’s reputation,” he said.
Lobo further alleged that many local owners have leased their liquor outlets to outsiders, resulting in widespread rule violations. He pointed out that tourists often purchase alcohol late at night, consume it openly on beaches, roadsides, or under trees, and leave behind litter.
“We do not support such cheap and disgraceful tourism. Visitors drinking under banyan trees or on pavements are not welcome,” he asserted.
The MLA added that he plans to write to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant demanding the suspension of the Mapusa Excise Inspector for neglecting duty and called on the government to conduct regular review meetings to rein in such violations.
