from special correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Goa (mb)
with additional inputs and pics by Rajtilak Naik
Panaji, Jan 1: Thousands made merry as state's road got blocked and beaches flooded with the party revellers who have come down to this coastal tourist destination to ring in the new year.
Intense partying, which began couple of days ago, today culminated with the guests and local population entering into the new year.
Goa, India's tourist hot spot, had around one lac guests teaming up with the locals to celebrate New year in this state famous for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife.
The state's roads and by lanes, especially leading to the tourist spots, were jammed with vehicles, majority belonging to tourists were caught up in the congestion. The four kilometres stretch from Goa's famous Calangute beach towards Panaji had traffic out of gear for almost three years.
Tourists enjoy the last sunset of the year 2007 on the world-renowned Calangute beach on Monday
A foreign tourist couple enjoy the last sunset of the year 2007 at Miramar beach on Monday
Tourists enjoy the last sunset of the year 2007 at Calangute beach on Monday
The new year bash at Aguada, Sinquerim
People walk past a huge NEW YEAR 2008 cutout in Panaji Monday midnight
The New Year-eve midnight party on the river cruise in Panaji on Monday
Splendid firework display is seen dazzling over the cruise jetty sky at Panaji on Monday mid-night to mark the beginning of Year 2008
The state has made ample security arrangements with 6,000-odd police force on their toes at various places.
Interestingly, many tourists who entered the state at worried note of facing anti-special economic zone agitation, had a relief when Goa government declared their intention to scrap these zones. Also, the anti-SEZ activists announced to withdraw their agitation.
Various beach stretches, mostly isolated, nestled closed to mountains, were more preferred by those intending to party hard throughout night while main beach stretches had families squattering on the sand and spending last moments of the year 2007.
Hotels had planned parties and events fitting different budgets which had a whopping response from the tourists. The celebrations in these hotels went with a bang and parties will continue till wee hours as police have restricted noise polllution act for a day today.
While entire world came to Goa to celebrate on beaches, native Goans especially Catholic population stuck to their houses till late night and participated in the mid nigh church masses. For many, it was a quieter new year celebration in the rural Goa.
Rajtilak Naik
News in Pics - some recent editions:
IFFI 2007 - Comprehensive Coverage:
IFFI Sidelights:
Run-up to IFFI 2007:
Rajtilak Naik - Best of Goan Photo Albums