http://www.newkerala.com/news2.php?action=fullnews&id=20794
Communal tension could affect trade and tourism in Goa Panaji: In the wake of violence in the Goan town of Sanvordem over the last two days, industrialists here have called for adequate steps to prevent recurrence of such communal clashes as it could affect the state's trade and tourism industry. "The violence took place in a small pocket but we have to ensure that it does not spread elsewhere," Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Nitin Cuncolienkar said. Goa has always been marketed as a communal tension-free destination and such violence would affect its image, he said. "Tourism is a very delicate industry. Little aggressiveness can damage it. Whatever happened should be curbed at this stage itself," said Bruno Gomindes, Managing Director Travco Holidays Pvt Ltd. Irrespective of religion, all Goans should unite and fight tendencies that lead to tension in the state, Cuncolienkar said. The travel and tourism body in Goa is optimistic that considering the character of Goans, the problem would be nipped in the bud. "This is a very localised problem and the town does not fall in the tourism region so it will not have any impact," stated Ralf D'souza, President-elect, Tours and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), an apex body of tourism sector in the state. "We are very positive as by nature Goans do not allow such activities to make a dent in the state," he said. -- TUMCHER AXIRVAD ASSUM; DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England
