PANAJI
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has issued a 15-day ultimatum to water sports operators to adhere to the queue system as he conceded lapses in compliance over the past two years.
The warning comes at the backdrop of recent incidents including the capsizing of an overcrowded boat on Calangute beach, resulting in a tourist's death.
Khaunte expressed concern over unregistered boats operating without mandatory approvals stating it has caused inconvenience and safety risks to tourists.
“In the last couple of months, there have been 3-4 incidents where boats were not even registered with the Department of Tourism. This creates problems for tourists,” he stated.
The department’s latest deadline of November 30, 2024 for the queue system is yet not complied. He insisted that associations and their members take responsibility for ensuring compliance.
“There is overcrowding, non-registration and non-adherence to the High Court’s directive including the queue system,” he said, adding that irresponsible operators were giving an undue opportunity to others to tarnish the industry’s reputation.
“It is high time that association members realize that some irresponsible members are creating a nuisance. The associations should start taking responsibility of their members,” he added.
Khaunte has further urged the Captain of Ports (CoP) not to issue licenses for water sports activities unless operators obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Department of Tourism.
“The CoP may not have the complete picture but the Tourism Department can assess activity capacities in each area. This process will ensure accountability,” he explained.
On the issue of stray cattle and dogs on beaches, Khaunte revealed collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services to ensure stray dogs are sterilized and relocated from beach areas.
“Tourists and locals must feel safe. We cannot allow incidents like dog bites to occur,” he remarked, adding that checks will commence on January 10 with plans for stricter monitoring starting in February.
A long-term plan is also on cards with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's intervention sought to ensure cooperation from other stakeholders.
The Tourism Department has also decided to promote Goan music, folk dance and cuisine aboard evening cruises operating one-hour trips. This directive will not apply to private parties.
