PANJIM: Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has decided to lease out four of its 11 Residences (properties) to private parties for a period of 60 years in a bid to generate revenue.
The Corporation also announced that it won’t go ahead with the proposed yacht club and marina at its Britona property, which has been undertaken for development through private investment mode, if villagers have reservation over the project.
Speaking to media persons, GTDC Chairman Nilesh Cabral said that in a bid to generate revenue for the corporation, it has been decided to lease out the residences at Miramar, Old Goa, Britona and Anjuna for redevelopment through public private partnership (PPP) model for 60 years.
“After 60 years, the property will be handed back to GTDC,” Cabral said, rubbishing allegations that the government is selling Goa to private players. “If we are outsourcing four properties, we are retaining seven,” he added.
Following growing opposition to the Britona property development, the GTDC chairman said that for now the priority is to build the starred hotel and under CSR funding to provide extended facilities like fish market to the locals.
“There is plan of marina and yacht club but it is a future plan. But if the people don’t want it, we will not go ahead with it,” he said adding that a presentation on the renovation and development of Britona Residency would be done to the Panchayat next week.
In another decision, to promote hinterland tourism, GTDC is exploring the possibility of financing home stays that would be promoted by the corporation. The concept would be introduced in the talukas of Sattari, Pernem, Canacona, Quepem and Sanguem.
Cabral said the corporation will identify people who want to associate with GTDC and would be provided finance for development of home stays. “GTDC will also ensure business to these people,” he said.
