Consultants hired to promote tourism in Goan hinterlands

In a bid to give impetus to hinterland tourism, Goa Tourism Department has appointed project management consultants for identification of sites and development of tourism infrastructure in hinterland talukas, the State Legislative Assembly was told today.
"Project Management Consultants have been appointed for identification of sites and development of tourism infrastructure in the hinterland talukas of Goa, such as Sattari, Bicholim, Dharbandora, Quepem, Sanguem, Ponda and Canacona," State Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar said in a written reply on the floor of the House.
Parulekar was responding to a question tabled by BJP MLA Subhash Faldessai.
The minister said facilities such as parking, public amenities, lighting, boating and children's play area and amphitheatre are being created at Mayem Lake in Bicholim taluka at a cost of Rs 8.93 crore and work has been awarded to M/s Bagkiya Constructions.

"GTDC (Goa Tourism Development Corporation) has undertaken repair and renovation of existing cottages located at its property near Selaulim Dam through licensee Anantara Alpha Hospitality Pvt Ltd. This will create accommodation facilities for tourists in the hinterland and generate local employment opportunities. The construction will start after necessary permissions and clearances are obtained from the respective authorities," he said.
He said GTDC has decided to undertake repairs and renovation of Bud-bud lake, Mainapee Waterfalls, Savari waterfalls, Neturlim, Dattagufa Mandir and scrutiny of estimates is underway.
"GTDC has introduced new tourism services like white- water rafting over river Mhadei in Sattari Taluka. Similarly, services like hot-air balloon, horse trails, bungy jumping, etc will be started in hinterland area and currently the process for identification of the sites is underway," he added.