PANAJI
The demarcation of beach shacks in South Goa is halfway complete, but in North Goa, where 259 shacks are to be set up, it has yet to begin. However, the Tourism Department has permitted operators to start erecting shacks based on last year’s demarcations.
“Although the demarcation hasn’t started, tourism officials have informed us that we can proceed with setting up the shacks according to markings from previous years. The process will begin soon after the shack operators return from the Velankanni pilgrimage and Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations,” President of the Traditional Shack Owners Association Manuel Cardozo told The Goan.
In the meantime, operators will need to apply for other necessary licences from the FDA, pollution control board, excise, electricity department, etc., as they expect to commence operations in time for the tourist season starting in October.
Data shows that the highest concentration of shacks is in Calangute with 108, followed by 88 in Candolim, 12 in Arambol, 11 in Morjim, and 10 in Mandrem. Other locations include Anjuna (7 shacks), Vagator (5), Siridao (2), and Chapora (2).
The Tourism Department began the demarcation process for beach shacks on September 2, starting with Cavelossim and Benaulim beaches in South Goa. While the officials assured that the demarcation would be completed by Ganesh Chaturthi, weather conditions posed delays.
The department also allowed some operators to begin setting up their shacks based on previous demarcations.
