MAPUSA
The early arrival of beach shacks along Goa’s famed shores, set up as early as October, was meant to give the tourism season a strong start.
However, the anticipated footfall remains underwhelming, leaving local business owners and tourism stakeholders disappointed.
While the arrival of chartered flights, especially from Russia, brought a glimmer of hope, the overall response so far has been far from satisfactory.
For a brief period during the Diwali weekend, Goa did see a rise in visitors.
However, local business owners describe the season as starting on a “sombre note.”
Despite the current challenges, there is a sense of optimism on the horizon.
A number of exciting events are scheduled in the coming weeks, which could help boost visitor numbers and significantly improve the situation for local businesses.
HOTELIERS SKEPTICAL
The arrival of chartered flights in October initially raised hopes for an influx of foreign tourists, but hoteliers remain skeptical about the actual number of international guests. Serafino Cotta, former president of the Small and Medium Hotels Association, noted that the number of English charter flights has stagnated in recent years, showing no signs of growth.
Currently, Goa receives about four charter flights per week, totalling around 16 flights a month, which amounts to approximately 80 flights over the five-month tourist season.
“This figure is far too low,” Cotta stated, highlighting that the hotel room inventory has significantly increased over the years.
He also mentioned that there have been very few charter arrivals from Russia, attributing this trend to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
“October was exceptionally poor in terms of business,” he added.
Despite these challenges, Cotta remains hopeful that an increase in Indian tourists could help fill the gap left by the decline in foreign visitors.
TOURIST QUALITY
Adding to the discontent is the nature of some of the tourists visiting Goa.
Local tourism operators and shack owners have voiced concerns over the “quality” of tourists this season.
“It’s not just about the numbers. Many tourists coming in are not spending much, and unfortunately, some are behaving disrespectfully. This affects the local vibe and doesn’t do justice to Goa’s image,” said Manoj Naik, a beach shack owner in Calangute.
INFRA WOES
One key factor discouraging higher footfall is the condition of the roads.
With a significant number of Indian tourists preferring to drive their own vehicles to the State, Goa’s poorly maintained road infrastructure has proven to be a serious drawback.
“The roads are simply not up to the mark. For the last 10 to 15 years we have not seen such bad roads. Bad roads are a major inconvenience for tourists. The government should do something to improve the infrastructure,” said John Lobo, General Secretary of Shack Owner’s Welfare Society.
GARBAGE ISSUES
Another recurring complaint from visitors is the cleanliness, or lack thereof, of Goa’s beaches.
Shack owners have reported instances of garbage remaining uncollected for three to four days, resulting in foul odour and an unpleasant experience for tourists.
“Tourists come for the pristine beaches, but what they find is quite the opposite. At times, wet garbage from the shacks is not collected for two to four days. The stink is unbearable and it’s really embarrassing for us. We’ve lodged several complaints, but nothing has changed,” said a shack owner in Candolim, requesting anonymity.
Several tourists also voiced concerns over the unsanitary conditions.
“Goa is supposed to be paradise, but there’s trash everywhere on some beaches. It’s disappointing,” said a tourist from Bengaluru, who wished to remain anonymous.
TIGHT BUDGET
Some local stakeholders believe that financial constraints could also be a factor in the season’s slow start. With inflation rising, people may have less disposable income for travel and leisure.
“Not everyone is spending like before; it’s clear. Some people are on tight budgets, and that might be affecting overall tourism spending here,” said Manuel Cardozo, President of Goan Traditional Shack Owners Association.
GOVT SUPPORT
Business owners are urging the tourism department and local authorities to address these challenges head-on.
"We need prompt action, particularly in terms of infrastructure repair and waste management. Goa’s reputation as a top-tier destination is at stake,” added Lobo. There’s growing frustration over what some perceive as neglect by the tourism department.
If left unaddressed, stakeholders fear that Goa’s tourism season might face more challenges.
