Colva: With the demarcation process completed by the tourism department, several shack operators have begun erecting their temporary structures along the Salcete coastal belt, signalling the start of preparations for the upcoming tourist season.Skeleton structures of the beach shacks are already visible along the Cavelossim and Benaulim beach stretches, with operators working to complete the installations ahead of the season. The early commencement of shack erection indicates that the beach shack season is effectively under way, even though the tourist season is expected to officially pick up from Nov 1.The early preparations are being viewed positively by the shack operators, particularly as they provide them with adequate time to put their businesses in order before the expected influx of domestic and international tourists in the coming months. Operators now have around 15 crucial days to complete the structures, bring back their staff and stock essential supplies to ensure that their shacks are fully operational by Nov 1.Shack owners, however, stressed the need for stricter measures to curb the practice of sub-letting beach shacks, which continues to remain a concern among operators. They also pointed out that the demarcation process had been delayed this year, leaving them with limited time to complete preparations before the season gains momentum.Meanwhile, domestic tourists have already begun flocking to popular beaches such as Varca, Benaulim, Sernabatim and Colva. However, the sharp decline in international tourists has emerged as a concern for shack operators, who say that both domestic and foreign visitors contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of Goa’s tourism season.One shack owner, who is already preparing for the season, said that operators generally cater to different categories of tourists. According to the operator, some shacks have a well-established clientele comprising primarily foreign tourists, while others depend largely on domestic visitors. A third category caters to both domestic and international tourists in equal measure.The operators remain optimistic about the season and are hopeful of witnessing a healthy flow of visitors to the Salcete coastline. However, they are also keeping a close watch on weather conditions, particularly the possibility of cyclonic activity in Nov, which could pose a threat to the temporary structures erected along the beaches.With the shacks now taking shape, operators are racing against time to complete the remaining work and ensure that the coastal belt is ready to welcome tourists from the beginning of the official season.
