The appeal of development comes with the lure of money. So, when the government speaks of infrastructure projects on our beaches, sugar-coated as development for the community, it hints at underlying motives that only raise questions.
Therefore, when the fishermen of Colva conveyed their apprehensions about the government's implementation of the Swadesh Darshan scheme, their concerns were valid because these (the proposed developments), according to them, raised the question of their livelihood at the cost of displacement.
Now, how much of the fishermen's concerns are true has to be studied, but there's no denying that a beachfront concrete development will certainly compromise the environment and the ecosystem of a coastal area. The term “Swadesh Darshan” is rich with religious symbolism, but is there environmental concern at its core?
The surge in tourist numbers at Colva has invigorated the local economy, but these are gradually pushing this coastal haven's natural limits.
During Christmas and New Year, Colva accommodates more people than its capacity, and we all know the chaos that follows.
Soon the beach will have reached a point of saturation. During Christmas and New Year, Colva accommodates more people than its capacity, and we all know the chaos that follows.
While Goa's land is under enormous strain due to development, its beaches are also facing an onslaught of unchecked tourism. Before we lose what's dear to us, we must bring sustainability, or a sense of it, into our tourism activities without making it free for all.
The first step would be to enforce the coastal development regulations without bias and by applying a common yardstick. Whether it is the government or a private body, coastal laws must apply uniformly for a balanced approach to beach management that protects our natural resources and supports sustainable development.
The rising popularity of Goa's beaches has brought with it myriad challenges that the government can no longer ignore.
The overcrowding puts a strain on beach safety management, and any untoward incident like tourist drowning is blamed on the authorities.
The overcrowding puts a strain on beach safety management, and any untoward incident like tourist drowning is blamed on the authorities.
This is precisely the reason the government has to step in by introducing practical restrictions on the state's beaches – restrictions that don't diminish the experience of tourism.
The Swadesh Darshan scheme, which the government is proposing to introduce, should factor in the present realities of tourism and not be just another white elephant that will not serve any purpose.
Looking at the challenges some of the beach destinations in Goa, like Calangute and Colva, are grappling with, the Swadesh Darshan scheme could be a great boon if it plays a role in creating awareness on responsible tourism through a kiosk.
Such kiosks could be placed at main access points with the express objective of engaging tourists right from the moment they arrive, instilling in them a sense of responsibility that extends beyond their visit.
Such kiosks could be placed at main access points with the express objective of engaging tourists right from the moment they arrive, instilling in them a sense of responsibility that extends beyond their visit. This way, this central scheme could play the role of a catalyst to promote sustainable tourism.
The need of the hour is a detailed audit of the beaches in Goa, to identify problem areas that could negatively impact both the natural environment and the overall experience for visitors.
This comprehensive evaluation must take into account the effectiveness of waste management, the extent of erosion affecting the coastal areas, the quality of the water in relation to safety and cleanliness, and the broader impact of tourism on the delicate local ecosystems.
By conducting this extensive assessment, the government will be better equipped to implement necessary improvements and safeguard the beauty and integrity of Goa’s coastal treasures.
The finding of the audit could be used to fine tune the Swadesh Darshan scheme to be implemented in Goa.
But before implementing the scheme, the government will have to take locals into confidence and create a win-win situation for all. Yes, Goa needs its tourism, but even more, we need it to stay on the right course.