MARGAO: With no solution in sight, the deadlock between the Tourism Department and the water sports operators from Cavelossim has continued, with water sports operators from other parts of South Goa’s coastal belt also objecting to the new queue system and fixed rate cards they are being forced to abide by.
The water sports operators have also questioned why the Tourism Department has roped in Goa Electronic Limited (GEL) only at Cavelossim beach and no other beach, and why the rate card is displayed at the GEL kiosk only at this beach. They lamented that the rates are much higher as compared to what they charge. with the rate fixed by GEL for parasailing at Rs 1,240 per customer.
The operators added that most customers expect flexibility in the pricing and they sometimes offer discounted rates, but GEL may not allow this, causing them to lose business.
They pointed out that they have been running water sports on beaches since the beginning and that the Tourism Department played no role in investing in infrastructure or supporting the local businessmen. Roy Barretto from Cavelossim added that they have been following the court’s instructions andmaintaining a queue system amongst themselves, which has worked fine.
Objections were also raised at GEL’s insistence that the water sport operators, who said they have been paying their taxes regularly, submit their GST details, bank accounts etc.
