I’m perplexed by our Tourism Minister’s approach. He’s boast- ing about rising tourist footfalls, yet visiting Rajasthan to discus tourism improvement. If our offerings are successful, why seek advice from a struggling state and announce more projects?
The Minister wants to diversify Goa’s tourism beyond beaches and party hubs, but proposes projects like a Mandrem concert hub, Zuari Bridge observatories, Porvorim Town Square, Colva Beach redevelopment, and Kesarval spring beautification. What about maintaining forts, museums, and eco-tourism sites?
Genuine tourist feedback highlights issues like the taxi mafia, poor roads, lack of warning signs at jetty points, garbage, and security concerns at tourist spots. The Minister seems to ignore these concerns, prioritising new, high-expenditure projects.
For instance, building an observatory and restaurant atop the newly constructed Zuari Bridge will likely revive traffic jams, defeating its purpose. I question the department’s priorities and capability to address pressing issues. Is it not more prudent to focus on existing infrastructure and address genuine tourist concerns before embarking on ambitious new projects?
