Temporary Landing Facility that immigration authorities of Goa have has been giving out in large numbers might have alarmed our security agencies, but the tourist trade here feels that the facility of visa-on-arrival, if not TLFs should be made available to keep the industry vibrant in the state.
Tourism sources here say the NDA government has mooted a proposal for visas n arrival for citizens from select countries, but the changed security scenario in the wake of terror attacks forced the proposal on back burner. The alternative to visa –on-arrival available.” Instead of costly tourism promotion this would be a better option. he says .He cities Thailand and Bali in Indonesia where tourism has boomed with the introduction of this tourist-friendly facility.
According to Serafino Cota, president of the Federation of Small and Medium Hotels, it is not enough for hotels to offer the right price, but give tourists the ease of getting ther.He says,” And it all begins with visas. Agents get visas for a price. If that money is saved, the tourist would spend it here. If we want tourists, why they should be made to struggle to get visas?” Ralph DSouza, president of Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, says.” When a travel group expands at the last moment, it becomes difficult for them all to obtain visas. If a visa on arrival becomes a travel practice, it would be a great benefit.”
He, however, adds that security concerns should be addressed first.” If you want visas-on-arrival, our intelligence system and other infrastructure need to be in place. “Another industry leader who did not want to be named added,” it’s a good idea but checks and balances are needed. Our intelligence agencies would have to be armed in advance with sufficient data of people landing at the air-port.” Calling for a comprehensive look at the tourism policy, former Union minister of state for external affairs Eduaral trend as travel has become easier and much cheaper; but security concerns have to be addressed in a manner that is effective and pleasant.”
Goa SP Tony Fernandez said enquiries have revealed that tourists in some countries like Russia have had to wait two weeks or more for their visas and issuance of temporary landing permits facilities their time bound itinerary.
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