Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panjim, Feb 27: The Goa Tourism Department has launched a crackdown on unauthorized activities across beach shack operations, conducting surprise inspections to identify violations of the Goa Shack Policy. The inspection drive revealed multiple instances of subletting, prompting authorities to issue show cause notices to those found in breach of regulations.

During the inspection, officials uncovered 80 cases of violations in North Goa, with several shacks found to be illegally sublet. In South Goa, 19 shacks were also flagged for non-compliance. The inspections were carried out to detect unauthorized practices and ensure strict adherence to tourism policies.

Authorities have clarified that shack operators will have the opportunity to present their case in hearings scheduled for the last week of February. As of now, no penalties have been imposed, and the hearing process remains ongoing. The department is also reviewing data on the extent of subletting, particularly cases where shacks have been handed over to non-Goans.

The Tourism Department has assured that regular inspections will continue, and strict action will be taken against violators to maintain compliance. Officials reiterated that regulatory checks are being conducted periodically to monitor adherence to the shack policy.

Additionally, the department is in the process of compiling data on pending applications for shack allocation in North Goa, ensuring transparency in the allocation process. The government remains committed to upholding the integrity of Goa’s tourism industry, ensuring that beach shacks operate within the legal framework to provide a genuine Goan experience to visitors.