Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a decisive move to curb unauthorised activity in Goa’s tourism sector, the Tourism Department has announced a comprehensive crackdown on the illegal sale of water sports tickets by unregistered travel agencies — including those operating from outside the State.
The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Thursday, attended by coastal MLAs Kedar Naik, Delilah Lobo, Michael Lobo, and Sankalp Amonkar, along with officials from the Captain of Ports, Tourism Department, and representatives of water sports associations.
The meeting focused on protecting local operators, ending touting, and ensuring that all water sports activities are conducted under a regulated, transparent, and uniform system.
Khaunte said that several outside agencies, particularly from Maharashtra, were illegally selling Goa’s water sports tickets through online platforms. “Such activities mislead tourists and harm Goan livelihoods. We will act firmly against any unregistered agency or individual selling tickets without approval,” he said, adding that strict action will be initiated under the amended ‘nuisance law’, making such violations a punishable offense.
To support the drive, enforcement teams comprising the Tourist Police, Captain of Ports, Coastal Police, and Transport Department will conduct joint inspections across beaches and coastal areas.
Khaunte also revealed that the government has issued a Gazette notification standardizing rates for all water sports activities across North and South Goa, ensuring that tourists are not overcharged. “Water sports is an integral part of Goa’s tourism identity, and it must operate with fairness and accountability. With uniform rates and proper enforcement, both tourists and local operators benefit,” he said.
Further reforms include the introduction of standardized kiosks, colour-coded counters, and mandatory ID cards for all water sports staff. Tourists will be urged to purchase tickets only from official counters or authorized digital platforms linked to the department.
Authorities will also intensify vigilance during the monsoon ban period, when all water-based adventure activities are temporarily suspended to safeguard marine ecosystems.
Khaunte concluded by reaffirming the State’s commitment to preserving Goan entrepreneurship. “Our local operators are the face of Goan tourism. By promoting transparency and eliminating illegal practices, we are protecting their livelihoods and strengthening Goa’s global tourism reputation,” he said.
