CII-Goa calls for lifting of lockdown ‘as early as feasible’

NT NETWORK PANAJI

CII-Goa, on Wednesday, called for lifting of the lockdown as early as feasible although in a calibrated manner.

“Phased lifting of lockdown should be accompanied with confidence boosting measures that would provide livelihood opportunities for Goans at a time when the entire nation and economy is under lockdown,” said CII.
The industry representative body asked for continuation of work on ongoing infrastructure projects to create employment.

“The government could also consider front loading the plan expenditure,” said Blaise Costabir, chairman of CII-Goa.
Office bearers of the industry body met the Chief Minister , Pramod Sawant, in the evening at his residence to discuss measures towards economic re-start after the lockdown is lifted.

One of the suggestion is a phased start to industrial activity over a 100-day period. The CII also raised issues of industry, logistics, migrant workers and ease of doing business.
“Announcing opening of the lockdown in advance is important so that industry and society has time to plan in advance,” said Costabir who is also on the Economic Revival Committee set up by the government.

“Employees should be introduced back to work in phases. Those below age of 50 should be asked to report to work first and steps must be taken to enhance immunity,” he said.

CII also asked for deploying private buses to transport employees to industrial areas, which will run on 30 per cent capacity to encourage distancing.
According to the CII, the move will also give revenue to private buses.