Tourism in Goa
Why is Tourism in Goa Declining? Pic credit : The Commune Goa, once a vibrant and thriving destination, now grapples with empty streets and vacant hotels. Recently, a CEIC Data report shows foreign tourism in the state has failed to rebounce at pre-Covid levels. A dramatic contrast in visitor numbers, with only 1.5 million foreign tourists in Goa in 2023, compared to 8.5 million in 2019. Several factors contribute to this decline, notably the so-called 'taxi mafias' that impose outrageously high rates on tourists. In response to their demands, the Goa government has banned apps like 'Ola' and other online transportation services. People have been quick to share their experiences of harrasment and overcharging on social media platforms like X. Credit: Goabustaxihire One user recalled how he was threatened when he tried to assess a German tourist who was being overcharged. While others complained about physical intimidation also. Fueling the fire one user wrote how ...