Tourism accounts for 10 per cent of Kerala's economy . The State has projected itself as a tourist destination which has resulted in rising footfalls over the years. Wayanad, too saw rampant construction of buildings and resorts in eco- sensitive areas. The landslides in Wayanad that killed over 300 are a reminder to all the States including Goa that a balance needs to be struck. The Wayanad blunders despite several warnings by environment committees, indiscriminate quarrying and deforestation have continued apace, forcing Kerala to pay this heavy price. Goa government needs to take cognizance of Wayanad nature's fury which caused mass destruction of human lives and animals and property if the government does not stop cutting hills and converting them into settlement zones , on the pretext of tourism which amounts to 16.5 percent of Goa's economy. Goa is also known as"Pearl of the Orient" for its natural beauty, vibrant culture and historical significance. Will Rome of The East be lost? Time will tell. Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope for changes in the rules and regulations of deforestation and destruction of hills of Goa.
