PANAJI: Despite the model code of conduct being in force, restaurants and eateries across North Goa need not close at 11pm.
The North Goa district magistrate has granted a relaxation to shops, pubs, bars, shacks and restaurants allowing them to remain open after 11pm. They will, however, not be permitted to serve liquor.
In its earlier order, the district magistrate had directed all shops, restaurants, clubs, bars and shacks to close by 11pm, which hit the tourism industry hard, especially in the coastal belt.
The relaxation was granted after the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, an association of hoteliers and other related trades, submitted a memorandum to the Election Commission of India.
The association said that the seemingly vague notification will deal a death blow to the tourism sector, which is already suffering due to the issue.
The scenario will be worse because it is the peak tourist season. It said the ban has also inconvenienced tourists, including those who reach late and are left with very few options because of the ban.
