Panaji: After initiating the renewal of licences for beach shack operators, the tourism department has now invited applications from private shack operators, hotels and restaurants to operate deck beds and dining tables on Goa’s beaches until Sep 30.The move marks a subtle policy shift, with govt seeking to promote Goa as a year-round tourist destination. Traditionally, the monsoon season has been treated as the off-season for beach tourism and commercial beach operations.Tourism director Kedar Naik said applications will be accepted only from licensed private shack operators and hotels and restaurants registered with the tourism department.He said establishments found encroaching on govt beach land will not be eligible for permission.Applicants will have to pay a non-refundable application fee of Rs 10,000, a licence fee of Rs 56,000 for the three-month period, besides applicable taxes. New applicants will also have to furnish a security deposit of Rs 50,000.Permissions will be granted only within areas demarcated by the department and will be subject to site conditions, availability of space, green vegetation, and other environmental considerations.Licence holders must ensure that deck beds and dining tables do not obstruct the movement of tourists, lifeguards, beach-cleaning staff or law enforcement personnel. Each set of deck beds must be marked with the licence number for identification, and all installations must be removed immediately after the licence expires.
