Panaji, Dec 31 (IANS): After Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane triggered an alarm on New Year's eve by suggesting that the coastal state, which is brimming with tourists, may be headed for a night curfew, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday ruled out a night curfew for December 31 and January 1.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister urged tourists and organisers of New Year related events, to maintain social distancing, use sanitisers and masks while celebrating the event.

"We have not declared a night curfew anywhere for tonight and tomorrow. Everyone should follow SOPs to control the spread of coronavirus," Sawant said.

"Where there is a party or a hotel or a public place, one needs to follow SOPs. I appeal to all tourists, party organisers and especially tourists, to wear masks, maintain social distance and use sanitisers to control coronavirus. This is my request," Sawant said.

Earlier on Thursday, anticipating a surge in tourists during and after New Year, the Goa government is considering imposing a night curfew on the lines of the one imposed in the national capital and in Karnataka, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said on Thursday.

"Spoke to the Hon'ble CM on imposing night curfew in the state on lines of the state of Delhi & Karnataka. The file is already in process. Strict SOPs is the need of the hour as Goa is a tourist state," Rane said via his official Facebook account.

Goa has witnessed a surge in the tourist arrivals over the last few weeks, which peaked during the festive season of Christmas celebrations in the state.

Tourist authorities in the state are expecting another surge in the arrivals during the New Celebrations which stretch into the upcoming weekend.