Panaji (Goa): Colourful, decorated floats; dance and music are waiting to thrill the Goans as well as tourists with the four-day long Carnival set to commence this afternoon.
King Momo Bruno Azaredo will declare the Carnival open in the State’s capital Panaji. For the very first time, the float parade in the city has shifted from its traditional route to Miramar-Dona Paula stretch in a bid to reduce traffic congestion – a spoilsport every annual festival.
Over 50 floats are expected to participate in the parade as the final count will be made public little before the procession begins at around 3pm. Goa Tourism has laid emphasis that festival will be attractive by depicting more cultural aspects and minimizing inclusion of commercial floats. It is also a big moment for the Goa Police as it launches its maiden journey to this extravaganza. Director General of Police Muktesh Chander, who leaves no stone unturned to spread message on various critical issues has decided to make best use of this platform to create awareness on ill effects of drug abuse, weeding out prostitution and other illegal activities; and to follow traffic rules.
Polluting vehicles in the junk car category will not be allowed in the parade and no offensive exposure will be permitted. Consumption of liquor and carrying of lethal weapons will not be permitted on the floats during the parade.
Several thousand tourists are expected to throng at the festival evenness so the police force have been deployed to ensure law and order is in place.
Float parades in the other three major cities will be Margao on 11 February, Vasco on 12 February and Mapusa on 13 February. As far as the float parades in the minor cities, the parade in Ponda will be held on 11 February, Curchorem on 12 February and Morjim on 13 February.
Total prize money for the 2018 Carnival has been increased to Rs. 7, 35 lakh per centre compared to Rs 6.25 lakh last year.
Goa Tourism has also set the stage for the Goa Food and Cultural festival that began yesterday.
