The proposal by Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira to charge entry fees and make hotel bookings mandatory before entering the tourist place has sparked a heated debate. Sequeira’s intention behind this proposal is to curb nuisance activities and maintain the sanctity of the village as a tourist destination. However, his comments have been met with scepticism and controversy.
Sequeira has clarified that the aim of this proposal is not to inconvenience tourists arriving in taxis or personal vehicles with families but to discourage undesirable behaviour such as roadside cooking and parking issues. He emphasizes that the focus is on preventing nuisance activities and not imposing restrictions on genuine tourists.
The proposal, if approved, will require tourists to provide proof of hotel reservations or pay a tax to enter the village limits.
The implementation of this plan is slated to begin from the next tourist season, commencing in October. Sequeira’s reference to the entry tax system in Mahabaleshwar Municipal Council in Maharashtra exemplifies his inspiration for this proposal.
One of the primary objectives behind this move is to attract higher quality tourists and enhance the overall cleanliness of the village. By promoting a cleaner and more organized environment, the village aims to create a more appealing destination for visitors.
Moreover, the proposed regulations are intended to facilitate the smooth flow of traffic by addressing issues related to parking within the village.
While the village’s efforts to maintain its reputation as a desirable tourist destination are commendable, the proposal has sparked concerns and questions from various stakeholders.
The Goa Tourism Department has announced that no formal proposal had been received as of June 6, indicating that the administration will examine the proposal once it is formally submitted.
Critics and sceptics have raised questions about the practicality and potential impact of this proposal on tourism in Calangute. The proposal’s viability and the potential consequences on tourism, particularly the potential deterrent effect on visitors, have raised concerns within the tourism industry.
This ongoing debate underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of both the local community and the tourism industry.
While it is essential to preserve the integrity of the village and enhance the overall tourist experience, it is equally important to ensure that any proposed measures do not inadvertently hinder the flow of tourists or create an unwelcoming atmosphere.
Though the proposed entry tax and hotel proof regulations in Calangute have stirred a significant amount of debate and uncertainty, this is not teh first time an entry fee or hotel booking has been asked at checkpoints.
Such a system does exist in the neighbouring Maharashtra State at Mahabaleshwar wherein every vehicle is charged entry tax besides every individual person. These taxes are for garbage and sanitation facilities charged by the municipality.
However, having such a system in Calangute would be difficult as Calangute has five entry points while Mahabaleshwar has just one. So the manpower, machinery and inconvenience to locals will all have to be considered before the plans are implemented.
While the intention behind these measures is rooted in maintaining the village’s appeal and cleanliness, a comprehensive assessment of the potential impact on tourism and the local community is imperative before their implementation. Finding a middle ground that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders will be essential in shaping a sustainable and harmonious approach towards tourism management in Calangute.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
