Visa-on-arrival is must to revive tourism: MLAs

Porvorim: The House witnessed heated discussions on tourism demands as MLAs urged govt to implement long-pending reforms, with the visa-on-arrival facility emerging as the primary demand for attracting high-spending international tourists.MLAs questioned the absence of visa-on-arrival services at both Dabolim and Mopa airports, despite assurances given before the latter became operational. “European tourists particularly, should get this facility as it will attract high-spending tourists,” said Calangute MLA Michael Lobo.Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa also made a strong pitch for the facility. “Both the engines are yours. Tell Centre of the need for the visa-on-arrival facility to promote tourism,” he said.Lobo criticised the non-implementation of the tourism master plan, which he said consumed Rs 5 crore and three years of preparation before its completion in 2016. He also said that removing illegal touts, guides, and other unlawful activities from beaches was essential for attracting quality tourists.Poriem MLA Deviya Rane advocated for declaring the Ghodemoddni festival of Sattari as a state festival, as well as for promoting wellness and medical tourism. She stressed the necessity of direct international flights from Goa to elevate beach, medical, and spiritual tourism “to the next level.”