Lokayukta for Goa
The editorial ‘Fighting corruption’ (NT September 25), brilliantly sums up in a nutshell, both, the urgent need for a Lokayukta in the state for good governance, transparency and accountability as well as the futility of having a Lokayukta without powers to prosecute the corrupt. Former Justice Misra’s resignation as Lokayukta is a classic example of how frustrating it can be when the state government fails to act on the orders of the Lokayukta to prosecute the corrupt and guilty. Secondly, with a weak Opposition, why should the BJP government in Goa be in a hurry to appoint an ombudsman when everything around is hunky dory and the government fully committed to pursuing a policy of zero tolerance to corruption in the state?
A F Nazareth, Alto Porvorim
Act responsibly
I wish to bring to the notice of the people and the authorities concerned the issue of pollution caused by the bursting of firecrackers on Goan beaches during various festivals and New Year celebrations. While the festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm, the excessive use of firecrackers on beaches like Palolem, Patnem, Colva etc is leading to environmental problems. Smoke emanating from the firecrackers and the noise created disturb peace of the surroundings apart from harming the marine birds and animals and also increasing health risks for the locals and tourists. Moreover, waste from the firecrackers is often left scattered on the beaches and finds its way into the sea, causing seawater pollution and endangering marine life. Goa is a beautiful tourist destination and such harmful practices tarnish the state’s natural charm. I strongly urge the authorities to regulate the use of firecrackers on beaches and encourage eco-friendly celebrations such as cultural programmes, music and community activities. I appeal to my fellow citizens and visitors to act responsibly and celebrate festivals without causing damage to the environment.
Aayush Pagui, Mashem
Role of citizens
That tourism is a key factor for a country’s economic prosperity would be an understatement. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has, no doubt, been observing September 27 as the World Tourism Day from 1980 to create awareness but ‘awareness’ is an oft-repeated word that has bordered on becoming worn out. International governments aim to infuse responsibility in travellers because responsible travellers, aware of their obligations towards maintaining the purity of a tourist destination, are godsends for tourism. The sector is a large avenue for employment in India with as much as 25 million workers earning their livelihood. India is a fast growing tourist destination for foreigners, and it is indeed a labourious task for the government to keep tourist places spic and span which is why the role of citizens in overseeing the orderliness of key tourism places is so vital. ‘Connectivity, Cleanliness, Certainty’ are the three essential ingredients that make a tourist place much sought after.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Parking fees
Strongly objecting to the steep hike in parking fees from Rs 80 to Rs 200 at the Manohar International Airport by the Mopa airport management, taxi operators at the airport have reportedly threatened an agitation if the fees are not rolled back within 48 hours. This exorbitant hike in the parking fees will be burdensome for the taxi operators. The hike has been carried out without taking the local taxi owners into confidence. The taxi owners have warned that higher parking costs will inevitably push up taxi fares, hitting passengers’ pockets and potentially denting tourism. Many drivers, who make daily trips to the airport, say the increase threatens to erode their already tight margins. The ground reality is that the taxi operators have to wait for a long time for delayed flights. The sudden hike in the parking fees will put an unreasonable strain on their earnings. It is pertinent to note that the Mopa airport was set up in Pernem taluka by ensuring employment opportunities for locals. This was not to be. Many of the unemployed may have switched over to operating taxis from the airport. However, the hike in parking fees will put a dent into their earnings. They are reportedly demanding a more practical, staggered rate system, one that balances fairness for drivers and passengers with the airport’s need to manage traffic and costs. The government needs to step in and address the issue. If the taxi operators go ahead with the threat of an agitation, it will create a bad impression of Goa.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
