‘Address local issues before initiating new developments at Colva beach'

Colva:
The Small and Medium Hotels Association has urged govt to address the long-standing issues faced by local businesses and the fishing community before initiating any new development projects at Colva beach.
'Colva beach, once known for its pristine charm that attracted people from all corners of Salcete, now lies in a state of neglect. This has led to a sharp decline in foreign tourist arrivals, particularly among the hippie crowd that once put Goa on the global tourism map,' Small and Medium Hotels Association vice president Dixon Vaz.
Vaz, who is also Cavelossim sarpanch, said govt's recent announcement to develop Colva beach under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme must be preceded by consultations with local stakeholders.
He said the local fishing community's concerns — especially regarding spaces for unloading and drying their daily catch — must be resolved first, with permanent solutions.
He said govt should discuss the proposed developmental plans with key stakeholders, including restaurant and shack owners, taxi drivers, water sports operators, the public and the local panchayat.
Vaz said he will also request the chief minister and the tourism minister to look into their grievances before proceeding with development initiatives.

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