MAPUSA
The recent directive by the police to shut down beach shacks by 11 pm along the Candolim-Calangute-Baga coastal stretch has sparked discontent among shack operators, some of whom hold excise licences allowing them to operate until 1 am.
As per the State’s tourism policy, shacks must cease playing loud music by 10 pm and conclude operations by 11 pm.
However, many shacks, particularly in the Calangute-Baga area, reportedly remain open past 2 am, with some operating until 4 am.
“The reality is that most Indian tourists are out late along the Calangute-Baga coastal belt, even in the early hours. We get business during these times, so shacks stay open,” a shack operator stated on condition of anonymity.
He added that these tourists are often budget travellers seeking alcohol and loud music for entertainment.
Criticising the State’s tourism strategy, the operator remarked, “When we promote Goa as a destination for wine, dining and fun, we attract such tourists. These same individuals wouldn’t dare drink past 11 pm or litter in places like Singapore.”
Shack operators in Candolim paint a different picture.
Savio Gonsalves, a shack owner from the area, said most establishments there close by 11 pm or midnight, as the crowd significantly dwindles after that time.
“The government must decide whether it wants to attract low-budget tourists or high-quality visitors. Providing low-cost infrastructure attracts low-budget tourists,” Gonsalves argued.
He also expressed concern over social media influencers and YouTubers shaping the itineraries of Goa’s tourists.
In quieter areas like Arambol, shack operators follow the prescribed timings more closely.
“Most shacks here close by 11 pm, though a few stay open until 1 am,” said Pramesh Mayenkar, a shack operator from the area.
Mayenkar noted that police had not enforced the closure order in his area but advised shack owners to report any unruly tourist behaviour.
Similarly, Sandesh Shetgoankar, a shack operator from Ashvem, stated that most establishments in his region close by 11.30 pm, with only a few operating until 1 or 2 am.
“There aren’t many shacks here, and the police haven’t issued any specific instructions,” he added.
The divide between different areas highlights contrasting tourist behaviours and enforcement of rules along Goa’s coastline.
While some operators comply with the regulations, others continue to extend hours, citing economic pressures and high tourist demand.
The debate over balancing tourism promotion with maintaining order and preserving the local culture remains unresolved.
