Increase in fees likely; GCZMA to decide number of shacks to be permitted along beach belt
TEAM HERALD
teamherald@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: Beach shacks may be issued three-year licences, if a Tourism department proposal, which has been submitted to the government for cabinet approval goes through.
Ministry level officials said that the policy for 2013-14 is still in draft stage and will also require the approval of the Coastal Regulatory Zone authorities before it is placed for consideration before the government.
The new policy covers both beach shacks and those in private property.
While a long term licence is being considered for beach shacks, those in private property may be subjected to the annual ordeal for renewing licences.
The department has put for consideration before the government, the issue whether shacks in private property should be given a relaxation on area, which was earlier restricted.
Officials in the Tourism department said that there are several issues for consideration by the GCZMA and the cabinet which include a long term licence policy, uniformity in size and design of shacks, licence fees, etc.
Indications are that there may be an increase in license fees. However, those shacks who have violated the earlier shack policy (whether beach or private property shacks or have forfeited their security deposit) may be considered for a licence but on higher licence fees and security deposits.
“This is an exercise to get the offenders in line,” said an official in the tourism ministry. Barring violators from applying for licences is also another option being considered.
The tough measures are being chalked out in the wake of increasing violations reported by shack operators in private property. As far as the number of shacks to be permitted along the beach belt this year would depend on the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA).
“We want to begin the process for allotment of shacks at the earliest so that they can begin operations in time for the season,” said an official in the Tourism department. The tourism ministry is expecting all clearances and approvals from the CRZ and cabinet within the next week or two.
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Meanwhile, the Tourism department has also moved a file seeking to extend the existing beach water patrol and lifeguard service contract till September 30. The ministry proposes to re-float tenders as the earlier process had been struck down due to objections. The tenders are expected to be floated within the next 10 days. This is a second extension sought after the original contract expired on June 15 and was extended till July 31.
The short-listing of a consultant for the Tourism Master Plan is also scheduled within the next 10 days.
