Goa govt has capped the rate of RT-PCR testing for foreigners arriving in the state, at ₹ 3200. With DGCA’s approval on the landing of charter flights in Goa, the state will soon begin witnessing heavy tourists footfalls. The pandemic situation seems to be improving everywhere now but any laxity in following COVID protocols and precautionary measures can have severe consequences. So, while the tourists will still be allowed entry into the state, a mandatory RT-PCR test will follow to ensure safety for all.
RT-PCR test mandatory upon arrival
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As per the central government’s guidelines, RT-PCR testing is mandatory for everyone visiting India, except those who have tested negative for COVID 72 hours prior to their arrival. Apart from this, people coming from countries that have mutual agreements with India on recognition of vaccination certificates are exempted from this test.
Charter season in Goa begins in October and runs till May. While tourists from all over flock to the state during this time, the major tourist contributors here are Russia and the UK, that account for nearly 10% of total charter arrivals. While flights from Russia will start landing in Goa from mid-November, flights from the UK will not land here before mid-December.
