Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Captain of Ports Department, has announced enhanced measures to streamline and regulate watersports operations in North and South Goa.
This initiative aims to ensure safety, uniformity, and transparency in watersports activities, aligning with the state’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism.
During a meeting held under the chairmanship of the Secretary Tourism, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, alongside the Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, critical decisions were made to enforce the “Queue System” across all watersports operations in the state.
This system will guarantee fair and orderly service to tourists while ensuring that stakeholders adhere to guidelines for operational excellence.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Tourism, Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, said “These measures are essential for safeguarding Goa’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination. By streamlining operations, we are fostering trust among visitors and supporting sustainable tourism practices.”
Adding to this, Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS remarked “The implementation of the Queue System and other reforms reflects our commitment to enhancing the tourism experience in Goa.
These changes will not only benefit tourists but also strengthen the watersports sector by promoting fair practices and safety.”
The key decisions taken include the mandatory implementation of a 100% Queue System by all watersports operators and stakeholders to ensure transparency and prevent the overcharging of tourists. Ticket rates and timings will be enforced across all operators, eliminating discrepancies between different zones.
Additionally, unauthorized watersports operations are strictly prohibited, with stringent checks in place to ensure compliance with registration and licensing norms.
All watersports operators are also required to submit affidavits by 30th November 2024, affirming their commitment to the Queue System and adherence to operational protocols.
To ensure stricter enforcement, Secretary Tourism, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS and Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS have requested the Captain of Ports to submit a comprehensive list of watersports operators who have not yet registered.
The Captain of Ports Department will work closely with the Department of Tourism to ensure full compliance and support the enforcement of these measures.
