Panaji, Feb 27 – Goa BJP MLA Michael Lobo has claimed that the sale of South Indian delicacies like idli-sambar in beach shacks is contributing to a decline in international tourist arrivals in the state. Speaking at a press conference in Calangute, North Goa, Lobo stated that the responsibility for dwindling foreign tourist numbers does not rest solely with the government but with all tourism stakeholders.
Lobo expressed concern over local beach shacks being rented out to business owners from other regions, particularly Bengaluru, who serve non-Goan food items like vada pav and idli-sambar. He suggested that such offerings could be a factor in discouraging international tourists from visiting Goa.
However, the legislator did not provide specific details on how these food choices directly impact foreign tourist footfall.
Lobo emphasized that the decline in international visitors, particularly in Goa’s coastal belt, has been noticeable over the past two years. He urged stakeholders, including the tourism department, to conduct a joint study to identify the reasons behind this trend.
He also pointed out that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has significantly affected the arrival of tourists from Russia and former USSR countries, which historically formed a substantial portion of Goa’s foreign visitors.
Additionally, Lobo highlighted unresolved issues within Goa’s tourism industry, such as conflicts between cab aggregators and local tourist taxi operators. He warned that failing to address these concerns could lead to further setbacks in the state’s tourism sector.
“If we don’t put a system in place, we will see dark days in the tourism sector,” he cautioned.
With tourism being a key economic driver for Goa, stakeholders are expected to engage in discussions to tackle these pressing challenges and revive the influx of foreign tourists.
Last updated by a enewsx: