Panaji, April 26 (ANI): The Department of Tourism in Goa has banned drinking and carrying of liquor bottles on beaches in the state.
Goa's image has taken a beating recently, largely due to a spate of crimes against foreign tourists, rising prices and its overcrowded beaches.
The Director of Tourism Department in Goa, Nikhil Desai, said they took the decision to ban consumption of liquor on beaches to make tourists feel safer.
"Now, if people want to come to Goa, they are our guests, we will welcome them. Let them have drink in shacks or in hotels or any other licensed premises, which is perfectly legal, and let them behave responsibly so that Goa continues to remain beautiful not only for them, but for other tourists and other stakeholders who are part of this industry," said Desai in Panaji.
Tens of thousands of tourists visit Goa to enjoy its sun kissed beaches, which are also famous for night-long parties.
The tourism department has also asked the state police to increase patrolling to prevent the tourists from breaking glass bottles on the beaches.
The President of All Goa Liquor Traders Association, Dattaprasad Naik, however, said the ban would affect liquor traders and sales.
Goa attracts over 2.6 million tourists annually. The surf, sun and cheap liquor are some of the main draws of the state, which is one of the top beach tourism destinations in the country. (ANI)
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