Tourists come in caravans to skip high cost of accommodation

CANACONA, OCT 6
In a novel approach to bypass the peak hotel rates along the coast during the season, tourists have begun bringing in their own accommodation.
Caravans have returned to the Agonda shore and are seen occupying the vacant space along the southernmost part of the beach.
“Travellers along with their caravans have started to arrive in large numbers, mostly come from European countries,” informed a resident from the locality.
At present, over a dozen caravans are seen in the area, with families occupying the seafront locations. And if locals are to be believed, another dozen caravans are expected in the next few days.
During the tourism season last year, over 40 such caravans were seen stationed during the Christmas week. Many caravans were seen prominently hoisting their respective country flags, almost resembling a township of foreign tourists.
Explained a source: “Since, the vacant land belongs to an abandoned starred hotel (presently manned by security guards of the court appointed arbitrator), the place is easily accessible. Many caravans camp over here for long durations which could range for months together.”
Locals, however, complain that the caravans generate huge garbage in the area.
“All sorts of waste are regularly thrown in the nearby rivulet. By January-February, the rivulet is saturated with human waste, they claimed.
This issue was also raised before the panchayat and residents had suggested that the Agonda panchayat levy fees to the caravan for using public space during their vacation.
When contacted, panchayat sources, however, remained mum in the matter and claimed that no concrete resolution was pressed for by members in the gram sabha.
Panchayat sources pointed out that the site is guarded by security personnel appointed by a court.
Locals have alleged that the security guards stand to earn revenue by permitting caravans on the site.
Some have suggested that security guards charge about Rs 500 per week, depending on the duration of the stay and the location.