On July 14, 2024, the editorial of one of the newspapers cautioned that tourism in Goa faces comparable challenges to tourism in Barcelona, France and Greece. The editorial called for a scientific study on Goa’s carrying capacity and a master plan to balance tourism and resource conservation. The allure of Goa attracts millions of tourists annually, becoming a double-edged sword.
Overtourism in Goa is a growing concern, threatening the State’s environmental sustainability , socio-cultural fabric and overall quality of life for Goans. The first to take the initiative in addressing these concerns should be the Goa government, focusing on preventing exploitation and ensuring sustainable tourism. However, other stakeholders must also join hands to strike a balance between economic benefits and cultural preservation.
ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE Tourism is undeniably a cornerstone of Goa's economy. According to the Goa Department of Tourism, tourism contributes approximately 40 percent to the State's GDP, and employs a significant portion of its population. The influx of tourists supports a myriad of businesses, from hotels and restaurants to local artisans and transport services.
For many Goans , tourism is not just an industry, but a lifeline. However, the economic benefits come with their own set of challenges. The dependency on tourism makes the local economy vulnerable to fluctuations.
Seasonal variations, global economic conditions and health crises can severely impact tourism, .