Around 2,000 foreigners still in Goa: FRRO SP

Panaji (Goa) [India], May 4 (ANI): Superintendent of Police, Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) Bosco George on Monday said that around 2,000 foreigners are still living in Goa despite evacuation.
George said that approximately 8,000 foreigners were in Goa when the lockdown was announced. He said the evacuation operation, which went on as per the Union Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines, saw around 6,000 foreigners going back to their native countries from Goa airport.
"As per our estimate, there are at least 2,000 foreigners who are currently in Goa. Our evacuation is still on. We have to follow the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)," he said.
"Many of them had come on a tourist visa, who were not registered with us. But there were many who were on a business visa and were registered with us," he said further.
With regard to foreigners stranded on coastal districts of Karnataka, he said that foreigners can enter the State to reach the airport but they cannot stay in Goa.
"Even if the foreigners have to leave via the port of Goa, they need to get a clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs," added George.
George further said that a large number of Russians are yet to be evacuated from the State.
"A large number of Russians, who are still yet to be evacuated as there were no flights initially and now there are flights," he said.
He said that they are coordinating with the MEA and the Russian nationals are leaving Goa and some have even gone via Mumbai port."
George also said that the Government of India has extended visas till May 17 without any extra charge.
"Till the time the lockdown is not lifted and the commercial flights do not resume from Goa, the visa would be extended but they have to log in and register themselves. Once registered, it is understood that their visa will be extended," George. (ANI)