PANAJI
While the issues surrounding the shack policy have been sorted, at least for the time being, the perennial problem of timely allotment and setup of beach shacks has reared its head once again this year. In fact, the authorities could likely be dragged for contempt, given that the High Court of Bombay at Goa’s recent order directed allotting shacks 1-2 months prior to the season.
‘Ambassadors’ await allotments
The last-minute release of the shack policy, coupled with disagreements over certain clauses, lengthy meetings, and various other challenges, persisted right up until the commencement of this season on October 1. Shack operators, tagged as ‘ambassadors’, are awaiting their allotments.
As per the Tourism Act, the new tourism season officially begins on September 1 and extends until May 31, even though the first charter arrivals are typically not until October.
The blame game
Already in October, the notification of the amended policy is yet to be issued and the entire process remains in a state of limbo. It is also learnt that the department is now pointing fingers at the Environment Department for not replying to the request to complete the beach carrying capacity, yet. This will determine the total number of shacks on the beaches even as the North belt gets more than the South.
“We appreciate Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for addressing the concerns of traditional shack owners regarding the new shack policy. However, the process of allotment that should ideally commence in June is still awaited. This is precisely why I began submitting memorandums in March, urging prompt shack policy,” Cruz Cardozo, President of the Shack Owners Welfare Society, said to The Goan.
General Secretary John Lobo has already pointed out that the new beach shacks policy is in violation of a High Court order, which directed the department to consider making allotments and issuing provisional licenses at least 1-2 months before the season officially commences. With these delays, it appears that the shack business may not be up and running until late next month, causing concern within the industry.
EDC loan at lower rate
In the recent meeting with CM, shack operators also raised the issue of providing loans from EDC at a lower rate of interest to help unemployed applicants or those in financial crises to start their businesses.
Some shack operators have also objected to the demand for a lottery system made by few other shack owners. Cardozo stated, “If anybody is asking for a lottery system for traditional shacks, then it is uncalled for. The Chief Minister and Tourism Minister need to check why people are asking for a lottery system on traditional shacks.”
