GCCI for providing industry status to tourism

Panaji, Dec 3: The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has demanded conferral of industry status to tourism to realise the full potential of the sector.

''Conferral of industry status would entitle tourism to secure several advantages in project funding, exemption from local taxes for the first few years and concessional power tariffs. Though the central government has recognised tourism as an industry, many state governments are still to accord this facility to hotels and other tourism related business,'' said a report on Goa's Infrastructure compiled by the GCCI.

Pointing out inadequate transportation infrastructure in the form of a proper all weather, 24-hour international airport and roads besides proper public transportation and regulated taxi and coach service, the report said the need of the hour was to look into inadequacies in the present arrangements, which hamper growth.

Lack of budget accomodation, recreational facilities like theme parks, golf courses. infrastructure for water supply, sanitation, sewerage and solid waste management is adding to the woes, it said.

Upkeep and cleanliness of beaches and places of tourist interest through organised garbage collection and disposal was also a cause of concern, according to the chamber.

Citing improper tourist facilitation desk and security to foreign tourists, it also urged for specialised courses and educational institutions to provide necessary manpower needs of the tourism industry.

GCCI suggested building a trade and convention center, strengthening road network, introducing leisure, water sports and adventure tourism, heritage and culture tourism to re-position Goa as the 'gateway to India'.

UNI