The Goan government has issued an order to ban certain tourism-related activities that are carried out illegally and ordered the police to take action against violators.
The Goa Department of Tourism has banned tourists from cooking on the roadsides, selling hand-guided tours, distributing booklets promoting out-of-state tourism, drinking on beaches, etc. An order signed by the State Director of Tourism, Nikhil Desai, authorizes the Goa Police to take action against the illegal activities mentioned in the order.
The department said that “such activities damage and degrade the tourism potential and attractiveness of local resorts.” The ban takes effect immediately.
In total, 10 types of activities turned out to be illegal. This list includes, among other things, all types of boating and water sports in spontaneous, unequipped places, making fires and cooking on roadsides, creating any interference with tourists, imposing advertising and selling tickets for cruise boats, and other tourist activities, except official ticket offices and offices. Activities related to the sale of souvenirs from unauthorized handcarts, and the presence of unofficial peddlers in tourist areas are now prohibited, the order says.
Merchants, agents, and service providers should in no way impede the free movement of tourists and force them to purchase. It also prohibits the unauthorized sale of tickets and tour packages to resorts outside of Goa.
A ban is introduced on the illegal placement of sun loungers, umbrellas, tables, and other items on all beaches in the state without a valid permit from the relevant competent authority.
It is no longer possible to use vehicles and drink alcohol on the coastline.