‘Goa Beach Shack Policy 2023-26’ mandates 90% experienced operators and 10% new entrepreneurs

PANJIM: The State cabinet on Friday approved the Goa Beach Shack Policy 2023-2026 by introducing 90 per cent experienced operators and 10 per cent new entrepreneurs and age limits for the applicants between 18 and 60 years.

Addressing the media persons after cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the this was second policy approved for next three years with provision of providing opportunities to 90 per cent experienced operators and 10 per cent new entrepreneurs for erection of temporary seasonal structures on beaches across the State.

Fee structure of activities to be registered under the policy has been increased by 10 per cent for both A and B category beaches. For the first time, the new policy has a fixed age limit for the applicants.

Now only those in the age group of 18 to 60 years can apply for the shacks. The policy has mention of “Digital Coast” at beaches where shack allottees will be provided POS machines by the DoT.

The policy also has provision for picket fencing and scientific disposal of sewage waste including black and grey water with the help of concerned local Panchayat Raj Institutions and Urban Local Body.

Under the earlier policy, 259 shacks were permitted on the identified beaches in North Goa while 105 shacks in South Goa. The same number of shacks has been retained even as no shacks will now be permitted at Keri beach as the Water Resources Department (WRD) is to take up Anti-Sea Erosion and protection work there.