Promises to safeguard interests of traditional fishing community
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, officials from tourism department, and members of the fishing community jointly inspected Kharewaddo beach on Saturday afternoon.
VASCO
In a significant step toward the revival of Kharewaddo beach, Tourism Minister Khaunte has assured all necessary efforts to transform Kharewaddo beach into a cleaner and more tourist-friendly destination, while ensuring to safeguard interests of the traditional fishing community.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte was speaking to media persons after he along with Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, officials from the tourism department, and members of the fishing community carried out a joint inspection of the beach on Saturday afternoon.
The visit came in response to a demand raised by Salkar in the Goa Legislative Assembly, urging the government to restore Kharewaddo beach to its former glory.
REVIVAL PLANS
Speaking to reporters after the inspection, Khaunte said the tourism department has chalked out a long-term plan for the revival of the beach.
“The Vasco MLA raised concerns that Kharewaddo beach wasn’t being cleaned and was excluded from the previous beach cleaning contract. We’ve rectified this in the new tender and included Kharewaddo for regular beach cleaning,” he said.
Khaunte emphasised the importance of a collaborative effort between the government and the fishing community.
“This beach is not just a tourist spot, it is also home to a vibrant fishing community that has lived and worked here for generations. We will take their concerns into account and ensure no disruption to their livelihood. At the same time, they must also take ownership and responsibility to keep the beach clean once it is restored.”
The minister outlined a phased approach to revival, starting with clearing the accumulated waste, followed by landscaping, installation of benches, illumination, and the re-establishment of sanitation infrastructure.
“We have directed that a Sulabh Souchalaya or public toilet be restored here and a sewage system be put in place to prevent open defecation. Once we clean the beach, we will request the fishing community to help us maintain it,” he said.
Khaunte also noted the beach’s potential in light of the expected growth in cruise tourism. “This beach has a unique view. With cruise ships bringing in more tourists to South Goa, a clean, well-maintained beach will significantly enhance Vasco’s tourism profile,” he added.
Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar said a collective effort is needed from all residents, especially the fishermen, to restore Kharewaddo beach.
“We are currently in the peak fishing season. The beach cleaning drive will commence as soon as we coordinate with the fishermen and reach a consensus. We want development, but it must be inclusive,” he said.
As the government and local stakeholders prepare for the transformation of Kharewaddo beach, the success of the initiative may well rest on how sensitively it balances tourism development with traditional livelihoods.
