Expanded Enforcement Authority
The Department of Tourism in Goa has recently granted its deputy directors enhanced regulatory and enforcement powers, a strategic move designed to more
effectively manage and oversee tourism activities throughout the state. This significant delegation of authority, effective immediately, now permits these officials to issue formal notices, conduct thorough hearings, and impose financial penalties on any individuals or businesses found operating without the requisite registrations. This proactive measure is specifically targeted at those engaged in tourist trade activities that contravene the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, ensuring greater compliance and accountability within the sector. The deputy directors are now the primary authority for scrutinizing applications for tourism-related businesses, meticulously verifying all necessary documentation, and personally inspecting a wide array of tourism operations. This includes, but is not limited to, travel agencies, shacks and huts situated on beaches, and various adventure sports providers such as water sports, adventure sports, and even aero sports, thereby creating a more robust framework for operational integrity.
Maintaining Beach Order
Beyond the direct regulation of operators, the new directive places a strong emphasis on maintaining order and preventing nuisances at popular tourist destinations, particularly along Goa's renowned beaches. The deputy directors have been entrusted with the direct responsibility of overseeing enforcement teams tasked with this crucial objective. Their mandate includes the proactive prevention and control of activities that are officially declared as nuisances under the relevant legislation, ensuring that the beach environment remains enjoyable and safe for all visitors. This integrated approach combines administrative oversight with on-the-ground policing, creating a comprehensive strategy to uphold the state's tourism standards and visitor experience. While these expanded powers focus on registration and enforcement, it's important to note that a separate, existing committee responsible for the categorisation and rate fixation of hotels across various classifications (A, B, C, and D) remains unaffected by this recent order, continuing its operations as per the 2013 notification.
