Panaji: State tourism minister Rohan Khaunte on Monday said that his department is “actively monitoring” accommodations listed on Online Travel Agency (OTA) platforms to ensure that they are properly registered with the authorities.
Khaunte was responding to a zero hour mention during ongoing monsoon session of the Assembly. BJP MLA Michael Lobo raising the issue on the floor of the House said that there is growing inconvenience caused to locals by homestays operating within residential societies, often attracting unruly tourists and disturbing the neighbourhood fabric.
The minister said that the regular watch is kept on accommodations listed on OTAs and also they are actively monitored.
He said that the government has ensured that all inventory of hotel rooms, guesthouses and other stays linked with OTA platforms are registered with the Department of Tourism.
Khaunte conceded that many second homes and residential buildings are being misused for tourist stays without informing the authorities. “The people who come to these second homes and operate as tourist accommodations often do so without proper registration,” he said.
The minister said that the Housing Societies must keep a watch on the flats and apartments being turned into guest houses illegally and inform the Tourism Department immediately.
Khaunte said that the state government, along with the Chief Minister, will work towards finding a sustainable solution that protects the interests of both residents and the tourism sector.
Tourism Department is actively monitoring accommodations listed on OTAs: Khaunte
