The Government of Goa on April 21, 2026, issued the notification regarding the Modification of Restrictions to Permit Limited Refreshment Services During Shri Devi Lairai Jatra at Shirgao.
The following has been stated namely: -
• The order modifies an earlier order restricting stalls, shops, hotels, and similar activities during the Shri Devi Lairai Jatra at Shirgao.
• The revision is based on a site review considering devotee needs, fasting practices, hot weather, and safety concerns.
• The alteration aims to ensure availability of refreshments, beverages, and drinking water for public health and safety.
• Only existing eateries and similar establishments are allowed to serve light refreshments, cool drinks, and drinking water.
• Strict prohibition continues on new stalls, kiosks, temporary structures, hawkers, or unauthorised commercial setups.
• All permitted establishments must strictly follow crowd management, safety rules, and access-control measures.
• Activities must not block emergency routes, pedestrian paths, queues, or designated movement areas.
• Permissions can be restricted, suspended, or stopped anytime by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate or field officers during crowd-sensitive situations.
• Controls may be enforced during key rituals and crowd-heavy movements, including Homkhand rituals and Dhonds’ movements, while all other original restrictions remain in force unchanged.
[Notification No. DCB/BICH/DEVI/Lairai-Shirgao/Jatra/1347]
