Goa hires firm to draft master plan on tourism

Sandesh Prabhudesai in Panaji

Goa, an international tourist destination known for its golden beaches and idyllic palm-fringed coastal belt, is drafting a new tourism master plan.

With a view to reducing pressure on Goan beaches, the state plans to exploit its natural beauty in the hinterland and its historical heritage by exploring six areas: eco-tourism, heritage tourism, adventure tourism, rural tourism, business tourism and science tourism.

A study conducted by the consulting firm reveals that above 35 to 45 per cent domestic tourists, as also 20 per cent foreign tourists, try and visit the hill side, the heritage places and the forests in Goa. Sixty per cent of the tourists, however, enjoy only the beaches.

"Tourism activities (along the coastal belt) have led to exploitation of natural resources like air, water, sandy beaches, etc and a lot of pollution. This poses great dangers and could lead to ecological and physical imbalance," the report states.

Though application of modern technology could minimise the likely negative impacts, the firm feels that it more prudent to think of a solution for sustainable tourism. It suggests promoting 'controlled tourism zones' by consolidating the existing traffic rather than allowing more hotel constructions.

The eco-tourism proposal includes wildlife observation, trekking, bird watching and study tours on flora and fauna. In order to promote science tourism, the master plan suggests making use of the National Institute of Oceanography as well as setting up of 'technological park' to attract students with a scientific bend.

The report suggests that the rich history of Goa -- the seat of 16th century-old Portuguese churches -- lends itself to ideal 'heritage tourism'. This could be done by conducting guided tours of churches, besides temples, forts as well as arts and cultural events in an organised and lively manner, the report says.

The proposal of adventure tourism primarily caters to adventure sports like scuba diving, snorkelling, paragliding, parasailing, yachting, river rafting, trekking and sea surfing. The survey reveals that a majority of domestic and foreign tourists favour such activities.

With Goa fast emerging as a place for business conferences, seminars and conventions, the consulting firm has suggested that business tourism be given a thrust by targeting office executives, CEOs and business tycoons. The study suggests new themes like sea cruises and setting up of convention centres, especially during the monsoons.

As many tourists like to personally experience ethnic village life, suggestions have also been made to evolve a new concept of rural tourism by developing 'theme villages' like fishermen's village or handicrafts village, which could project its ethnic lifestyle, day-to-day activities, cultural events and food habits.

The report discusses strategies to be adopted to innovatively package the six sectors. One is to declare a 'special tourism area' to draw private sector funding by formulating tax incentives.

The report also suggests the speedy development of infrastructure like roads, water supply, sanitation, power and telecommunication facilities to boost tourism.

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