Goa beaches come alive with vibrant new year celebrations

PANAJI: Goa’s iconic beaches turned into celebration hubs as lakhs of tourists and locals gathered to welcome the New Year. The festivities began on Tuesday evening, with crowds flocking to witness the last sunset of 2024.

At midnight, the skies lit up with dazzling fireworks, and beach shacks hosted musical programmes, creating a lively atmosphere. Popular beaches such as Calangute, Baga, Vagator, Candolim, Colva and Palolem were packed with revellers as the celebrations extended into the early hours of Wednesday.

State Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant extended their greetings to the people. Governor Pillai remarked on Goa’s achievements, including the Mopa link road and the Manohar International Airport, which are poised to boost the state’s economy.

The Christian community, comprising about 30 per cent of Goa’s population, marked the New Year with midnight masses in churches, followed by community gatherings and entertainment activities.

Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte expressed satisfaction with the peaceful celebrations, highlighting the state’s enduring appeal as a top destination for New Year festivities. Hotels, including premium establishments, reported full occupancy.

Heavy security was deployed across key locations to maintain order. Except for a few minor incidents, the celebrations remained peaceful, a senior police official confirmed.

Chief Minister Sawant encouraged residents to embrace the New Year with hope and determination. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to welfare initiatives and urged everyone to strive toward a “Swayampurna Goa” in the year ahead.

(with agency inputs)