PANAJI
Amid criticism over a decline in foreign tourist arrivals, the Tourism Department has conceded certain challenges while urging not to compare Goa with international hubs like Sri Lanka.
However, the officials have maintained silence over “taxi mafia” accusations levelled by some locals and tourists while arguing that it has affected footfalls.
“Goa, like any other tourist destination, is governed by market forces and at times the air and hotel components make Goa expensive leaving the potential tourist seeking alternate options,” reads a statement from the department.
The department also stated that Goa faces specific challenges, including limited scheduled international flights but assured that the government is collaborating with the Centre to reconsider the point of call and increase seat entitlements for Goa to establish more robust international connections.
According to the department, domestic tourism in Goa has seen a strong resurgence, with over 8 million domestic visitors in 2023. While international tourism was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic “worldwide”, Goa’s foreign tourist arrivals are on a steady recovery path, reaching over 450,000 in 2023 following the ease of travel restrictions and global mobility.
“It is important to note that Goa is a state within India, whereas destinations Goa is being compared to like Sri Lanka are countries. Comparing a state to a country may yield an inaccurate perspective,” the statement added.
The drop in foreign arrivals led to backlash across social media, with many stories centered around the highhandedness of local taxi operators, high costs, and infrastructure woes.
