Inspection shows Goa beach shacks flouting policy norms, says tourism director

Panaji: A surprise inspection by the tourism department revealed multiple violations by shack operators across the state. The inspections were conducted to check illegalities and ensure compliance with the Goa Shack Policy.
Along with subletting of shacks to residents of other states, the tourism department also found that some shacks did not have GST registration. Shack operators also had more than the permissible number of sunbeds on the beach. Numbering on the beach beds was also not done by shack operators.
“During the inspection, authorities identified 80 cases of violations, including subletting, in North Goa alone. Notices have been issued to these shacks under the Goa Shack Policy. In South Goa, 19 shacks were found to be violating regulations,” said tourism director Kedar Naik.
The department said that it also started compiling data on applicants who are on the waiting list for shack allocation in North Goa.
The department’s surprise inspection across Goa’s beaches comes after a series of altercations, violence, and even a death allegedly at the hands of shack workers. Subsequent investigations revealed that multiple shacks were being sublet to individuals from North India, which is a violation of the Goa Shack Policy.
As a result of the inspections, show cause notices have been issued to the violators, said Naik, adding that the shack operators will get an opportunity to “present their case” during the hearings scheduled for the last week of Feb.
“As of now, no penalties have been imposed, and the hearing process is ongoing. Further details on the number of shacks sublet to non-Goans and the professions of those involved are yet to be confirmed,” said Naik.
Tourism authorities said that regular inspections will continue, and action will be taken against any violations detected in the future. When asked about the mechanisms put in place to track violations along the beach, the department maintained that periodic regulatory checks and inspections are being carried out to monitor compliance.
The department said it will continue to enforce the Goa Shack Policy norms to maintain the integrity of the state’s tourism sector.