Overview

• BJP MLA Michael Lobo attributes the decline in foreign tourist arrivals in Goa to the sale of non-local foods, such as idli-sambar and vada pav, in beach shacks.
• Lobo criticized the subletting of beach shacks to operators from other states, arguing it undermines the promotion of Goan culture and cuisine.
• The MLA highlighted additional challenges facing Goa's tourism sector, including unresolved disputes between taxi operators and cab aggregators, as well as inadequate systems for garbage collection.
• Lobo pointed to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as a factor reducing tourist numbers from former USSR countries, a significant demographic for Goa.
• The Goa tourism department has issued show-cause notices to 99 beach shacks for policy violations, including illegal subletting, as part of efforts to address the crisis.