Team Herald
MARGAO: Beach weddings in Goa are set to become costlier, with the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) deciding to hike the fees to Rs 1 lakh per day.
Previously set at Rs 1 lakh for a five-day fun and frolic event, with an additional charge of Rs 10,000 extra per day, the revised cost now has now been steeply hiked to Rs 1 lakh per day.
In addition to beach weddings, the updated fee structure introduces charges for various coastal activities and temporary structures. These include security fees for hoardings, sheds, and fabricated swimming pools, as well as a 10% scrutiny fee for plan revisions. A notable new fee is the Rs 1 lakh charge for permissions to construct sewage treatment plants, reflecting the department’s focus on environmental protection. The revised fees took effect on Thursday.
Many venue owners and event companies have voiced concern over the sharp rise in fees. They fear the increased costs will push customers to choose more affordable destinations, both within India and internationally. Goa, known for its thriving beach wedding industry, may lose out to other beach locations that can offer more competitive prices. Industry insiders warn that this shift could negatively impact those directly or indirectly involved in the wedding and events business in the state.
Despite these concerns, some fees remain unchanged. The cost of repairing and renovating existing structures holds steady at Rs 25,000, while reconstruction or beautification of existing houses will continue to cost Rs 35,000. Permissions for new house construction are still set at Rs 60,000, and fees for temporary structures like beach shacks and huts also remain fixed at Rs 700 per square meter for shacks and Rs 400 per square meter for huts and cottages.
Government bodies, charitable trusts, schools, and institutions will receive a 75% concession on the new fees, a move that is expected to provide some relief to these entities. Additionally, the revised policy introduces new categories, including fees for casino vessels and different types of hoardings.
Environmental groups have cautiously welcomed the fee hike, viewing it as a step toward more sustainable coastal management. They hope that the increased costs will encourage event planners and developers to carefully consider the environmental impacts of their projects before proceeding. The department, too, expressed optimism that the changes will lead to more responsible use of beach areas and fewer frivolous applications for coastal zone activities.
However, event organisers argue that the high costs in Goa are already a challenge, and these new fees could further hurt industry’s profitability. They emphasize that the increase may drive away customers, shrinking the market for beach weddings and events. This could have broader economic repercussions, particularly for Goans whose livelihoods depend on this sector.