A negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test is now mandatory for those traveling to Goa by train

In a bid to control the surging rate of coronavirus cases in Goa, the state administration has issued travel protocols for all rail passengers arriving in the coastal state. Reportedly, all Goa-bound Indian Railway passengers will now be permitted entry into the state only after they produce negative RT-PCR COVID-19 negative test reports. According to the listed protocol, this report should not be older than 72 hours before the date of arrival in Goa.

Pre-requisites for travelling to Goa via trains

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The state of Goa is dealing with a high tide of new cases due to the second wave of coronavirus infection and has consequently, scaled checks at its borders to arrest foreign incidents now. The administration has devised travel protocols to ensure maximum caution against such cases. A negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test report or full vaccination certificate (both doses) have been marked as pre-requisites for all rail passengers arriving at Goa.

These will include all railway station including Kulem, Sanverdam Church, Madgaon, Vasco Da Gama among others. Passengers need to ensure that they carry the validation documents to receive entry into the state. All check-posts have been directed to ensure that there is no scope of laxity, at any point.

However, the Northern Railways have listed special categories that have been exempted from the aforementioned travel protocols. These include:

• The Goa locals: Residents do have to produce proof of residence if they do not have the negative report
• Business-related travel: This passenger will have to show their work ID, identity proof or letter from the employer legitimising the purpose of travel.
• Medical-emergency travel: These people will have to show proof of emergency ( doctor's receipts, prescription) or proof of arrival in the state via an ambulance.