Panaji: After drawing criticism for lack of
security on its beaches, Goa government now intends to form a
force of local youths who will look after the security aspect
on seashores frequented by tourists.
Chief Minister Digamber Kamat said the government intends
to engage 1,000 local youths under public private partnership
(PPP) mode to enhance security for tourists.
"Security and protection to the life of the tourists in
the state has been in question in view of a few incidents in
the recent past," Kamat said while presenting the annual
state budget this evening.
He said the state government acknowledges the damage
such incidents could cause to the image of the state. "My
government, therefore, desires to take up confidence-building
measures by enhancing security of tourists," Kamat added.
He said the force would be at par with beach safety
management scheme currently run by a Mumbai-based private
firm.
The state government has earmarked Rs 500 lakh in the
budget 2010-2011 for the scheme.
Tourists visiting the state were wary of their security
after a spate in crimes against foreigners including a rape on
a minor Russian girl and the earlier instance of death of
British teenager Scarlett Eden Keeling on Anjuna shore.
PTI
First Published: Thursday, March 25, 2010, 23:30