Having read comments by one of the tourists in Goa in the Herald’s Citizen’ page, dated Jan 9, my immediate thoughts were with the aggrieved. I fully subscribe to his thoughts as Goa has become a “not so lovely place” to most of the tourists, specially to foreigners. The recent survey of 30% shortfall in foreign tourists tells of things to come. So what actually ails the Goan Tourism Industry? Why did the much talked about foreign jaunts and road shows fail to deliver?
First and foremost, Goa has failed to showcase a good comprehensive tourism policy. The policy that would have given direction to plan the growth at various sectors. There cannot be a blame game at all times as our successive governments have failed to have a vision for growth of tourism in the state. The present state of affairs in the famous Calangute-Baga and Vagator belt is nothing but has become notorious place to be with domestic tourists who have literally invaded and run amok. The filth and mismanagement of the public places is an eyesore to any visitor.
Very often our babus have a misconception that the domestic tourists indeed spend more while holidaying in Goa. It may be very true, but the nuisance they create in hotels and public places is far from desirable. The long term strategies have been overlooked and we are running after quick money. Just showing the figures to camouflage the actual downtrend doesn’t serve well for the state, as it may not be too long that most of the businesses may shut down their shutters for good.
What Goa should be interested in is more of foreign tourists who would enjoy the hospitality – enjoy the place and enjoy being with the people of Goa. And for this to happen, Goa should concentrate on cleanliness on a war footing. Bring in discipline amongst entrepreneurs on the beach front which today has gone haywire. If we don’t have discipline how can we expect the tourists or visitors to behave? The lack of discipline is obvious right from the arrivals at the airport where visitors are hounded by the indisciplined taxi drivers. Metered taxis would have given a sigh of relief. Move out the lamanis from the beach fronts once and for all as they have become nuisances and are indulging in robberies and harassment.
