Goa Shuts Down 23 Beach Shacks for Breaking Rules

Panaji – The Goa Tourism Department has ordered the closure of 23 beach shacks for violating the state’s Shack Policy 2023-2026. These shacks were illegally rented out to third parties, including non-Goans, which is against the policy.

110 Notices Issued, 23 Shacks Closed

After receiving complaints, officials inspected multiple shacks and issued 110 notices:

• 31 shacks were cleared of any violations.
• 23 shacks were found guilty and ordered to shut down, including six operated by non-Goans.

Rule Violations Found

Inspections revealed several issues, including:

• Shacks being rented out to people unrelated to the original owners.
• Payment systems (UPI/POS) registered under third-party names.
• Unlicensed deck beds.
• No GST registration for business transactions.

Strict Action Taken

The government has revoked licenses, taken security deposits, and ordered the shacks to be removed within 15 days. Officials say these steps are necessary to ensure fair business practices.

Violence at Beach Shacks Raises Concern

The crackdown follows recent violent incidents:

• January 26, 2025 – A businessman was killed after an argument at Arambol Beach. The shack was found to be illegally sublet.
• December 30, 2024 – A tourist from Andhra Pradesh was killed in Calangute after a dispute over food orders.

Goa’s Shack Policy

Beach shacks, made from bamboo and palm leaves, are a key attraction. The Goa Shack Policy 2023-2026 allows unemployed Goans to run these shacks from September to May. Over 361 shacks were allotted through a lottery and experience-based system.

Ensuring Fairness in Tourism

Officials have promised stricter action against future violations to protect local businesses and maintain Goa’s reputation as a top tourist destination.