Whose tourism are we fighting for in Goa?
The recent order by the Department of Tourism to curtail certain behaviour of unruly tourists in Goa is a step in the good direction.This a step that hopefully will see a clear implementation instead of just nominal enthusiasm in the start.
However, a question does arise, has the Goa government gone wrong in terms of managing the tourism industry? Over the past two decades, the state had witnessed a flight of high-end quality tourists and in return an influx of tourists who come here to abuse the land, its culture and in some cases its people.
The number of Goans depending on tourism has been declining because of an influx of outside labour into the state. The true essence of Goa seems to be disappearing from the industry that has become a hollow shadow of its past. Why destroy a state and its culture to benefit an industry that truly is no longer truly benefiting the natives? There is sincere hope that the memory of Goa survives in the memories of those alive today, even if the state doesn’t in the near future.
Peter D’Souza, Porvorim
Tourism dept shouldn’t expect police to act on its circular
The Tourism department through an order issued the other day has finally declared begging, hawking, cooking food in the open, littering in public places, driving on beaches, consumption of alcohol in public places, breaking of glass bottles on beaches etc as ‘nuisance’ and has rightly directed the Goa Police to crack-down on several such illegal activities/practices for tarnishing the image of all the beaches in the recent years.
Well, this sounds like a very good decision but will the police really take a serious note of the said order this time and finally crack the whip? I really doubt.
Because our Goan cops are historically known for fully protecting only notorious people after accepting their regular monthly ‘haftas’ or bribes and allowing them to openly carry on with their illegal activities in full swing in different parts of our state to enjoy their own ‘ache-din’ in Goa.
I therefore feel that the department should not expect anything from the Goa police even after issuing that particular circular.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Action to restore tourism
Tourism in Goa has become an eyesore due to the some people who are indulging in illegal activities to make short-term gains while creating an atmosphere of vulgarity and distrust.
However, it seems the Goa government and the Tourism department seem to be finally waking up to the reality, realising that the current course would end up costing the state a lucrative industry.
The measures that the department has announced yesterday namely declaring a list of several activities that create a nuisance, public disorder, promote illegalities and bring disrepute to Goa’s tourism industry. These crimes are punishable with stiff fines ranging from Rs. 5000 to Rs 50,000 or be liable for action under section 188 of the IPC, will deter the violators consisting of individuals, companies or associations from indulging in activities and practices that are tarnishing the state’s image.
It’s to be hoped that this public declaration and imposition of severe penalties, will go a long way to revive the quality of tourism in the state.
Antonio Diniz, Fatorda
Rise in fatal road accidents
Goa appears to have become a hub of fatal accidents. Everyday there is a news of fatal accidents on Goan roads. Over the last few days we have seen loss of young lives on road accidents which could have been avoided.
Narrow roads in the state are are not capable of dealing with big trailer trucks. Hence a restriction on their movements has to be imposed. Similarly, trucks and tankers should not be allowed to enter cities or ply on roads connecting city areas during school hours. Traffic cell should take strict action on trailers and trucks that ply during peak hours.
The government should also improve public transport so that the need to rely on private vehicles goes down, subsequently bringing down the number of fatalities in road accidents.
Widening of roads across the state should be a top priority.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco da Gama
Vigilance Week shouldn’t be a mere celebration
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant while inaugurating the Vigilance Awareness Week celebrations had stated that during his tenure as CM, at least eight tainted officers have been suspended. Sawant also holds the portfolio of Vigilance and this statement is of much importance. However, corruption free administration in Goa is a far cry yet.
First and foremost, the CM needs to ensure that the recruitment process to the government service is transperant, free of influence and favour. I have seen that government babus who are recruited by political blessings ride the roughshod over citizens and they are also protected by their political godfathers.
The CM should be congratulated for the Online Public Grievance system which has seen much reform. Time bound delivery of services needs to be ensured. Unless this is achieved, Vigilance Awareness Week shall remain a mere celebration.
Sadanand Raikar, Colva
