PORVORIM
Stating that the tourism department is working closely with authorities to secure justice for victims of the recent attack at a hotel in Anjuna and to prevent such incidents in future, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has called upon both tourists and Goan stakeholders to act responsibly to ensure that Goa remains the most-favoured and safe tourist destination for all.Speaking to The Goan, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has said the tourism department has initiated various measures for tourists and stakeholders to ensure that tourists have a safe and enjoyable experience while also respecting the local culture.
ATTACKS ON TOURISTS
Khaunte denied that the recent attack on tourists at a hotel in Anjuna, which had gone viral on social media, had tarnished Goa’s reputation as the most-favoured tourist destination.
“As the Minister of Tourism for Goa, I strongly condemn the recent attack on the tourists and the government is committed to taking the strictest action as per law against the offenders,” said Khaunte.
“However, I would like to emphasise that the people of Goa have always been welcoming to tourists for many decades now. The principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ is an integral part of Goan ethos, and it would be unfair to say that a one-off incident, though extremely condemnable, can tarnish the entire reputation of Goa’s tourism.”
“Specific to this incident, we understand that it was the aggression of the tourist that led to a violent escalation of the incident. So, my request is for both the tourists and our local Goan stakeholders to act responsibly and not take matters into their own hands.”
The minister said if such matters need to be escalated, it should be through the proper channels such as the local police station or register a complaint on the tourism helpline.
“Our team will escalate the matter to a logical conclusion,” he said.
He pointed out that the tourism department is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure justice for the victims of the recent attack.
“While we do that, we are also taking several measures to prevent such incidents in future,” he added.
ADVISORY FOR TOURISTS
Khaunte said the tourism department has come out with advisories on the Do’s and Don'ts for tourists during their stay in Goa, so that tourists feel safe and secure and at the same time, are mindful of local sentiments.
“We have issued several advisories for tourists visiting Goa which cover a wide range of topics, including safety and security, cultural norms and traditions, and environmental awareness. We believe that it is important for tourists to be aware of local customs and sensitivities, so that they can have a safe and enjoyable experience while also respecting the local culture,” said Khaunte.
He said the tourism department had taken a proactive step to enhance the experience of tourists by launching the helpline 1364 in February.
“This initiative is aimed to provide tourists with seamless access to information about various tourism-related services in Goa. The helpline is available 24x7 and provides services in English, Hindi and Marathi.”
“Besides accessing information, tourists can seek assistance in case of any distress situations using the helpline. When a tourist registers a complaint, the helpline operators promptly alert the authorities concerned, including the police (100), medical emergency services (108) and fire services (101), etc.”
SENSITISING STAKEHOLDERS
The minister said the tourism department, in collaboration with Goa Police, has been conducting programmes to sensitise hotels and restaurants on dealing with tourists.
“We are constantly reviewing the same and improving the reach and intensity of these sensitisation programmes to prevent such incidents. Further, we are always in engagement with trade bodies and taking their cooperation to ensure the safety and convenience of tourists,” he added.
"I assure you that the Goa government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that Goa remains the most-favoured and safe tourist destination for all," he concluded.
