PANAJI
In a bid to streamline the water sports sector in the State, the government has accepted operators request to bring uniformity in water sports rates, branding of kisoks across all beaches and to address illegal operations of agents.
During a meeting chaired by Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, it was also decided to convene a joint meeting with coastal MLAs, enforcement agencies, and other concerned departments to tackle issues related to illegal ticketing and unauthorized operations. The water sports operations in the State will commence once the new rates are notified.
On Friday, Khaunte chaired a meeting with Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Captain of Ports Octavio Rodrigues along with the members of Water Sports Association of Goa.
The discussions centered on challenges raised by the water sports operators, including the need for a standardized pricing structure across all beaches in Goa. Taking note of these concerns, the Minister assured that steps will be taken to bring in greater transparency, better enforcement, and coordination among all stakeholders.
Speaking to media persons post meeting, Khaunte said that water sports is one of the key attractions for tourists visiting Goa, and ensuring a uniform rate structure is essential for delivering a fair and transparent experience to visitors.
Khaunte said that uniformity in kiosk branding and rate regulation will bring discipline, improve service quality, and enhance Goa’s image as a premium coastal destination.
“Our aim is to provide a seamless and safe tourism experience while safeguarding the interests of traditional Goan operators who have built this sector. I look forward to their support as ambassadors of tourism, to take these initiatives ahead,” he said informing that a joint meeting with costal MLAs will be called soon.
Raising concern over illegal ticketing and unauthorized travel operations by some taxi operators and agents, Khaunte said that the department has noted that many of them are involved in promoting water sports from Malvan to the tourists visiting Goa.
“We have already initiated steps to strengthen enforcement measures and ensure that registered operators receive due support from the Department,” he said.
Water Sports Association of Goa President Paul Silveira welcomed the department’s positive approach to the demand for uniform rates. He said that uniform rates will not only protect operators from undercutting but will also ensure tourists are not overcharged by unauthorized agents.
He said that the department has assured that once the uniform rates are gazetted, operations will commence across all major beaches in a regulated and transparent manner. The Captain of Ports is directed to ensure that only licensed operators conduct activities.
