Goa casino operator to move to land

The Ports Minister in Goa said a casino operator has “shown willingness” to move its operation off the river, as the authorities want.

India.- Goa offshore casino operations are a major concern for the government. The ruling party promised to move them off the river but has achieved no progress yet. However, Ports Minister Michael Lobo says one company may be willing to leave its vessel for a land-based venue.

“One of the operators has shown willingness to move his casino. Now, we have to check its feasibility before taking a decision,” Lobo said.

Chief Minister praises casinos

The future of Goa casinos is still uncertain, but Chief Minister Pramod Sawant assessed their importance. The official explained they are a very important part of the tourism industry as they attract tourists.

“During one of the media interviews, I was asked whether I support casinos. Casinos are one of the important parts of tourism as they attract tourists… of course, it is there,” Sawant said. 

“We are getting direct and indirect revenue from the tourism industry. Now it depends on the stakeholders how to grow the industry, while the government can provide necessary infrastructure for them,” the chief minister said. “We want to make it 100%,” he said.