Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: The GCCI on Friday urged the state government to move forward with the ongoing marina project because of its potential to promote nautical tourism, even though the center clarified that Goa does not require MOEF&CC clearance for marinas.
Tourism plays a major role in the local economy, so it is important to maximize its potential, according to GCCI President Shrinivas Dempo.
“The amount of money made per visitor needs to rise. The industrialist wrote to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, “Travelers who come only to take in Goa’s scenic beauty and do not spend (they sleep in their own vehicles and cook on the roadside) are not positively contributing to the local economy.”
The letter makes the point that Goa needs to draw in well-paying visitors who will spend money in the state and boost its economy. Goa is a tiny state with a finite supply of land. Its 131 km of coastline are an invaluable resource that could be used and developed responsibly. Investing in marine tourism is one approach, it states.
Marinas, in Dempo’s opinion, are a smart place to start for Goa’s potential as a major cruise destination worldwide. It will undoubtedly change the game for visitor foot traffic and provide a significant boost to local tourism. Demand from the yachting industry is present worldwide. Additionally, it will draw wealthy travelers to Goa.
The industrialist, advocating for a blue economy model to help the state create jobs and means of subsistence, claimed that coasts, seas, and oceans present excellent chances for inclusive and sustainable coastal tourism growth.
The GCCI offers the following recommendations for marinas: they can be developed as recreational facilities; they can be helpful for boating events, yacht parties, regattas, and fishing tournaments; they can create jobs by providing facilities for sailing vessel refueling and repair; they can support nearby businesses, such as eateries, restaurants, and shops; and finally, they can improve the safety of the local fishing community by offering rescue services at sea.
