As tourists, both from India and abroad, flock to Goa’s sandy shores, there’s uncertainty surrounding the reopening of shacks, a key feature of the state’s beaches. Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has revealed that the environment department is yet to respond to his department’s request for the completion of the beach-carrying capacity assessment. This assessment will determine the number of shacks that can be established along the coastline.
Khaunte stated, “Regarding the shack policy, we have made amendments, and the cabinet has approved it. However, we are still waiting for the beach-carrying capacity assessment from the environment department.” During the previous season, around 370 shacks were permitted on the state’s beach belt, with 259 in the North and 105 in South Goa. With the new policy in effect and stricter enforcement of sewage collection and treatment norms, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority and the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) are required to conduct a survey and decide on the number of shacks allowed this year.
To ensure clarity for shack operators and avoid future issues, Khaunte emphasized the importance of finalizing these numbers. He explained, “They need to determine how many shacks can be set up in each zone, and then we can proceed with our demarcation process.” At the current rate, it’s unlikely that shacks on Goa’s beaches will commence operations before mid-October. Shack operators also provide deck beds for international tourists to enjoy the sun. Khaunte noted that the tourism department had requested the beach carrying capacity assessment from the environment department five months ago. He added, “I have personally spoken to Nilesh Cabral (environment minister) and urged for expedited numbers. We can’t afford further delays, and we are still awaiting the numbers.”
