"Will put a plug": Goa Tourism Minister challenges decline narrative, cites "robust" growth

Panaji (Goa) [India], January 13 (ANI): Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has come out strong against claims of a decline in Goa's tourism industry, citing robust growth numbers to counter the narrative.
He said that Goa's tourism industry will continue to thrive, and he's determined to "put a plug on the story of Goa's travel decline."
Speaking at the Goa Tourism Stakeholder Conclave, Khaunte revealed that the state saw a 21% increase in overall footfall in 2024, with December-to-December growth jumping by 54% compared to 2023.
Responding to the claims on social media about the decline in Goa tourism, Khaunte said, "In the last quarter we had a continuous attack. In December we had to decide whether to counter it or wait for the numbers and then talk about it. Taking to CM and board numbers we decided to wait. We have comfortably sailed as per the numbers."
He also highlighted that the last week of December 2024 saw a "record" of 200 flights per day.
Domestic tourists increased by 22%, while foreign tourists saw a 3% rise in 2024. Khaunte attributed these numbers to data compiled from airport arrivals, Konkan railways, and other transport operators. He also highlighted that the last week of December 2024 saw a record 200 flights per day.
Presenting the numbers of tourism growth, he countered the claims on social media and said, "I would like to put things together and ensure that are seeing continued interest in our state as a preferred destination. I think we will be able to put a plug on the story of Goa's travel decline."
The minister acknowledged that Goa has faced issues with over-tourism and infrastructure strain, including waste management problems. However, he emphasized the state's efforts to educate visitors about respecting local culture and traditions.
"We need to accept that there has been a little over tourism and infrastructure strain. We know that there has been an issue with waste management. We want to establish that technology is adapted in every stage," he said.
"We are making strong efforts to educate visitors about respecting our local culture and traditions," he added.
He asserted that footfall of footfalls in Goa can't be compared to footfall in other countries.
"At the same time, we cannot be compared with the footfalls of countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Srilanka which have been talking about tourism from different perspectives. I have said a few times back that wouldn't want to be like a country like Thailand," he said.
Khaunte also addressed rumours about Dabolim airport, stating that with two new airports coming up, concerns about Dabolim becoming a "ghost airport" should be laid to rest.
"With two airports coming up the issue and rumours about Dabolim becoming a ghost airport should be put to rest," he said.
Furthermore, he said that all the issues discussed in the conclave will be taken up in the Goa tourism meeting chaired by CM Pramod Sawant and an action will also be presented. (ANI)