Overtourism in Goa: Balancing economy and cultural preservation

On July 14, 2024, the editorial of one of the newspapers cautioned that tourism in Goa faces comparable challenges to tourism in Barcelona, France and Greece.

The editorial called for a scientific study on Goa’s carrying capacity and a master plan to balance tourism and resource conservation. The allure of Goa attracts millions of tourists annually, becoming a double-edged sword.

Overtourism in Goa is a growing concern, threatening the State’s environmental sustainability, socio-cultural fabric and overall quality of life for Goans.

The first to take the initiative in addressing these concerns should be the Goa government, focusing on preventing exploitation and ensuring sustainable tourism.

However, other stakeholders must also join hands to strike a balance between economic benefits and cultural preservation.

ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE

Tourism is undeniably a cornerstone of Goa's economy. According to the Goa Department of Tourism, tourism contributes approximately 40 percent to the State's GDP, and employs a significant portion of its population.

The influx of tourists supports a myriad of businesses, from hotels and restaurants to local artisans and transport services. For many Goans, tourism is not just an industry, but a lifeline.

However, the economic benefits come with their own set of challenges. The dependency on tourism makes the local economy vulnerable to fluctuations. Seasonal variations, global economic conditions and health crises can severely impact tourism, leading to economic instability.

Moreover, the focus on tourism often sidelines other potential economic sectors, reducing economic diversity and resilience.

ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION

One of the most visible impacts of overtourism in Goa is environmental degradation. The State's natural beauty, which is its primary attraction, is being compromised by the sheer volume of visitors.

Beaches, once serene and unspoiled, are now littered with waste. This is sad and pathetic to notice.

The increase in vehicular traffic contributes to air pollution, while the construction of new hotels and resorts often leads to deforestation and habitat destruction. And, this monsoon has shown us how we have miserably treated our lands in the name of development.

Water scarcity is another pressing issue. The rising number of tourists places a significant burden on the local water supply, often leading to conflicts between the needs of tourists and local residents.

Furthermore, the overuse of resources such as electricity and water by hotels and resorts exacerbates the strain on the State's infrastructure. What about the garbage that continues to pile up unattended? All leading to a massive heartache in our pristine Goa.

SOCIO-CULTURAL IMPACT

Goa's rich cultural heritage, characterised by a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, is another casualty of overtourism. The influx of tourists, especially during peak season, often leads to the commercialisation of cultural traditions.

Festivals and local customs, which hold deep cultural significance, are sometimes tailored to suit tourist expectations, diluting their authenticity. If you do not believe this, check the Shigmo, Carnival or the recently celebrated Sao Joao festivals.

Moreover, the exploding tourism industry has led to an increase in property prices, making it difficult for locals to afford housing. This gentrification process displaces long-term residents and alters the social fabric of communities.

The rise in short-term rentals, through platforms like Airbnb, escalates this issue, leading to a shortage of affordable housing for locals.

STRAIN ON INFRASTRUCTURE

Goa's infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with the rapid increase in tourist numbers. Roads are congested, public transport is inadequate and waste management systems are overwhelmed.

The State's healthcare facilities, already stretched thin, are further burdened by the seasonal influx of tourists, also given that we are an emerging hub for medical tourism.

The pressure on infrastructure not only affects the quality of life for residents but also impacts the tourist experience.

Overcrowded beaches, traffic jams and inadequate amenities can deter tourists from returning, ultimately harming the tourism industry in the long run.

Therefore, we need a balancing act to remind ourselves, and own our susegad nature, meaning to say that we are not in a hurry to just exploit ourselves and be exploited.

BALANCING ACT: SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Addressing the issue of overtourism in Goa requires us to look at different aspects and take an approach that prioritises sustainability. 

PROMOTING OFF-SEASON TOURISM 

We can encourage tourists to visit Goa during the off-season which can help distribute the influx more evenly throughout the year. This approach could reduce the pressure on infrastructure and resources during peak season, and provide a steadier stream of income for businesses.

IMPLEMENTING TOURIST CAPS 

Introducing limits on the number of tourists allowed in certain areas, especially during peak season helps prevent overcrowding. This strategy has been successfully implemented in other tourist destinations around the world and could help protect Goa's natural and cultural heritage.

NOT JUST ENHANCING, BUT MAINTAINING PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE 

Goa does invest in public infrastructure, such as roads, public transport and waste management systems which is crucial, but what one notices is, that it fails to maintain the public infrastructure regularly.

Upgrading and maintaining these facilities will not only improve the quality of life for residents, but also enhance the tourist experience.

PROMOTING ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES

No, I am not talking about greenwashing! Like literally being concerned about the environment.

Let us encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing plastic usage, conserving water and utilising renewable energy sources, which can help the environmental impact of tourism. 

CULTURAL PRESERVATION INITIATIVES 

Protecting and promoting Goa's cultural heritage should be a priority. This can be achieved through initiatives that support local artisans, preserve historical sites and promote authentic cultural experiences.

Collaborating with local communities to ensure their involvement and benefit from tourism is essential.

DIVERSIFYING THE ECONOMY

Reducing the State's dependency on tourism by promoting other economic sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing and IT, can enhance economic resilience.

If students and youth groups in schools, colleges and other institutions are coming forward to revive these sectors, why not give them the required push?

Diversification can provide alternative sources of income for residents, and reduce the vulnerabilities associated with a tourism-dependent economy.

CONCLUSION

Goa stands at a crossroads, facing the challenge of managing overtourism. The economic benefits of tourism are undeniable, but they must not come at the cost of environmental degradation and socio-cultural erosion.

Goa can find a way to balance economic prosperity with cultural preservation. The future of this idyllic destination enchanting visitors and remaining a divine home for us depends on our ability to learn from the past and implement strategies that ensure its long-term sustainability.

(The writer is a priest belonging to the Society of the Catholic Apostolate (Pallottine) and is currently studying for a Licentiate degree in Moral Theology. He comments on social and moral issues.)