Daijiworld Media Network- Calangute

Calangute, May 22: Facing mounting financial strain, the Shack Owners Welfare Society (SOWS) has made a fervent appeal to the Goa state government and the tourism department to slash shack license fees, citing steep operational costs and dwindling tourist footfalls this season.

John Lobo, General Secretary of SOWS, highlighted the growing burden on shack owners who are already grappling with reduced business. He noted that the current license fee of Rs 1.5 lakh, coupled with excise charges ranging between Rs 30,000–40,000 and soaring electricity fees of Rs 3.5 lakh, has significantly eroded profits.

“The government does not provide any infrastructure to the shack operators. Given the circumstances, the current fee structure is unaffordable and unjust,” Lobo stated, adding that shack operators are struggling to break even this season.

Urging authorities to consider extending shack operations till mid-June in key tourist hotspots like Calangute, Lobo emphasized that domestic tourists continue to flock to the beaches even during this period. “This extension will help operators recover part of their investment,” he said.

Lobo, who also heads the Goan Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that ongoing discussions are being held with the tourism department and Minister Rohan Khaunte. Several proposals have been submitted to tackle the issue of low tourist arrivals and improve the situation in the upcoming seasons.

He expressed hope that the government would take the concerns seriously and implement the suggested measures in a timely manner, helping shack owners tide over this challenging phase.

The shack owners now await a positive response, pinning hopes on the state’s intervention to ensure the viability of their traditional beachside businesses.