WEDNESDAY, JULY 03, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: Stakeholders in Benaulim constituency, especially those running guest houses, have expressed concerns about the potential impacts of the draft Goa Tourism Promotion, Management and Regulation Bill 2023 on the tourism sector.
These stakeholders, requesting more time to thoroughly review the draft beyond the July 6 deadline to submit their suggestions, also highlighted various challenges they are currently facing.
The small and medium guest house operators convened with Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas to discuss both the proposed Bill and other ongoing issues.
The group noted that certain provisions in the draft Bill could hinder the sector’s operations, putting their livelihoods at stake. They urged stakeholders statewide to examine the proposals carefully, deliberate on the possible consequences, and provide feedback to the government.
"Guest house owners are now required to register bookings online, but we have traditionally used handwritten registers. We ask the authorities to revert to the previous system," said Paul Lobo, a guest house operator.
Another operator requested that the government issue licences in August rather than November, as the current timeline effectively leaves them only four months to operate.
"The extended time and cost to travel to South Goa from Mopa airport are adversely affecting our business," another operator remarked, suggesting these issues should also be addressed in the bill.
Stakeholders also rallied against the proposed 2% sustainability fee, noting that they are already burdened by substantial taxes and fees when renewing their licenses.
Viegas said that the bill should have been discussed at the panchayat level.
"We have decided to seek an extension to provide our feedback. This bill should not be passed in its current form. It needs to be discussed at the panchayat level, involving all stakeholders, gathering their input, and then finalising it," Viegas said.
