Faced with mounting complaints over stray dog attacks on Goa's beaches and growing concerns over the State's tourism image, the tourism department has launched a coordinated effort to formulate an action plan aimed at tackling the menace before the start of the next tourist season.
At a high-level meeting held on June 30, the department brought together key government agencies and tourism stakeholders to identify practical measures that can be implemented within the framework of the Supreme Court's directions on stray dog management.
Representatives of the Shack Owner Welfare Society-Goa, Drishti Lifesaving Pvt Ltd, Mission Rabies (People for Animals), the Tourist Police and the Directorates of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Panchayats, Urban Development and Health Services participated in the discussions.
According to sources, one of the key measures under consideration is the creation of dedicated dog shelters at strategic locations to relocate stray dogs from high-footfall beaches.
The meeting also stressed the need for a coordinated mechanism involving multiple departments to respond swiftly to complaints, identify vulnerable stretches and implement long-term management measures before the tourism season begins.
Officials also discussed evolving a roadmap that would ensure compliance with the Supreme Court's directives while safeguarding public safety and adhering to animal welfare laws.
"There has been an exponential rise in the stray dog population on beaches, which is a serious concern for a tourism-dependent state like Goa. We want to take proactive measures before the tourist season so that visitors can enjoy the beaches without fear while ensuring that all actions remain within the legal framework," a senior tourism department official said.
The issue assumed greater urgency after officials were informed that around 100 aggressive stray dogs, believed to be leading packs across various beach belts, have emerged as a major threat.
"These dogs are not only a danger to tourists but also to local residents. They move in packs and several attacks have been reported," a source said.
The tourism department has also received numerous complaints from international tourists regarding stray dogs on Goa's beaches.
Several foreign visitors have suffered dog bites, with some sustaining serious injuries.
Sources further revealed that at least one foreign country has issued an advisory cautioning its citizens about the stray dog situation in Goa, raising concerns over the possible impact on the State's international tourism reputation.
Another review meeting has been scheduled next week to finalise the proposed measures and assign responsibilities to the various departments, with the Tourism Department keen to put an effective mechanism in place well before the arrival of the peak tourist season.
