If you had dreamt of ringing in the new year while partying in the middle of the sea, your wishes are set to come true. The city collector has decided to give permission for boat parties. So, you can go ahead and rent a boat or a yacht for your party.
“I have no objection giving permission for boat parties. People can celebrate by hiring a DJ. But they have to fulfill the prescribed government terms and conditions. Once we receive the proposal, we will scrutinise them and permissions will be granted,” said Chandrashekhar Oak, the city collector. He clarified that if the police turn down the boat party proposal, then he would not interfere in their decision.
After 26/11 attack, the state government had banned boat and yatch parties because of security reasons. “But now we are giving permission as it will help us generate revenue. The police and coast guard have to look after security,” said another government official.
A boat man said the collector gives permission but the police reject it on flimsy grounds. “New year is a big occasion to do business. But the government plays spoilsport. Over a period of time, our security cover too has improved. So, this should not be an issue to celebrate new year by renting a boat,” he said requesting anonymity.
