Goa buildings need architectural makeover: Panel

PANAJI - An architectural makeover for unaesthetic buildings and an independently functioning eco-tourism enforcement wing have been recommended by a legislative panel to promote Goa’s sagging tourism image.

The panel’s report on tourism, tabled in the Goa assembly Wednesday, has also asked the state government to regulate structures that create visual pollution, unaesthetic views and

non-compatible infrastructure.

“There is a need to ensure the continuous monitoring of the adverse effects of tourism activities and initiate suitable corrective measures,” the report says.

Underlining the importance of proper implementation of eco-tourism concepts, the panel, chaired by Congress legislator Pandurang Madkaikar, also recommended an independent eco-tourism enforcement wing to give policy support for development of eco-tourism destinations in the state, otherwise known for its beach-oriented tourism.

“A management plan for eco-tourism must be prepared by professional landscape architects and urban planners in consultation with local communities,” he said.

Goa’s image as a tourism destination has taken a beating in recent times with a number of sexual assaults on foreign women tourists, crumbling infrastructure and the state’s inability to dispose off garbage.