CALANGUTE: The Captain of Ports’ (CoP) order permitting water sports operators along the coast to carry out activities three days after their license expired was abruptly cancelled on Monday. Sources state the reason may be political.
The North and South Goa water sports organizers had sought an extension of activities based on the prevailing weather conditions. CoP obliged and granted an extension from today June 1 to 3, subject to a valid NOC upto May 31, valid insurance, and valid operator’s license.
The organizers along the Calangute coastal belt started activities at 10 am on Monday. Two hours later, they received oral orders to stop. They sought Calangute MLA Michael Lobo’s intervention, to no avail. However, despite the CoP not giving any further order regarding water sports activities, the operators are optimistic that they will be allowed to continue their activities for the extended period.
Although the water sports activities along Goa’s coast conclude on May 31, an extension is always granted for four or five days, provided the weather conditions are fine.
“We were happy with the extension, but the order was cancelled within two hours, and we do not know why. It should not have happened as the weather condition is good and conducive to water sports activities. Besides, everyone is on holiday in Goa,” said an operator.
Calangute member of the legislative assembly Michael Lobo said, “The CoP was kind enough to help the local community engaged in water sports business by granting an extension.
The water sports activities along the coast were started at 10 am, but within two hours there were oral instructions from the tourism minister to cancel the order. The water activities were stopped at 12 noon without giving any reason whatsoever, much against the wishes of the organisers.”
He added, “Perhaps, the order was cancelled due to an ego problem by the concerned minister. But, it should not have happened. The locals’ interest should have come first.”
