state government is considering to extend deadline to dismantle beach shacks: Khaunte
Porvorim: In a major respite to the Beach shacks in the state, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Saturday said that the state government is considering to extend deadline for these structures to dismantle.
As far as tourism department is concerned, by Monday, we will take the decision by consulting IMD and other departments. But in principle, we will not disturb the activities of the beach shacks, subject to the weather conditions,” Khaunte told reporters in Panaji.
The Beach Shack operators had petitioned State tourism department demanding that the deadline of May 31 given to dismantle the shacks be extended further as South West monsoon is yet to set in..
Talking to reporters, Khaunte said that the tourism department had set a deadline of May 31 due to the weather conditions in the state.
“But right now, the domestic tourists are arriving in the state in a big number these days. Although, we will take the decision to extend the deadline, the shack owners should ensure safety of the guests,” the minister said.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte speaking on the deaths due to drowning in abandoned quarries and other dangerous spots said “Tourists should behave responsibly. Everyone has to be responsible for himself. After few incidents, we have issued circular to all the people and tourists and also we will post tourism website about the safe spots.
After CM’s intervention, some departments have also asked the quarry owners to fence the areas. You cannot hold government responsible for everything. Loss of life is a big loss. We appeal the youth to go to the safe spots & enjoy responsibly.
“The stakeholders should hold the responsibility on what is happening on the beaches. If anything goes wrong, then there is a tendency to blame the state government,” he said adding that the department understands the issue of the stakeholders and the department is with them.
The minister said that the department will ensure that the regulations related to the tourism on the beach will come in force during the upcoming tourist season.
