Hans News Service Vijayawada

TheAndhra Pradesh Star Hotels Association has welcomed the State Government’s proposed Beach Shack Tourism Policy and expressed appreciation for its efforts to promote tourism and economic development in coastal regions.

In a representation submitted to the government, association president R V Swamy said the policy has the potential to transform Andhra Pradesh into a major coastal tourism destination while creating employment opportunities and attracting investments.

The association suggested that the Beach Shack Tourism Scheme be implemented initially on a pilot basis with the support of experts and consultants from successful beach tourism destinations such as Kerala, Goa, Odisha, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Drawing on their experience, it said, would help create a robust, sustainable and investor-friendly framework for the policy’s successful implementation.

While welcoming the initiative, the association proposed several modifications to enhance the commercial viability and attractiveness of the scheme.

It recommended extending the operating hours of beach shacks up to 10 p.m. to improve tourist engagement and business prospects. The association also requested the government to increase the maximum permissible area for beach shacks from the proposed 1,500 square feet to 3,000 square feet, stating that the current limit may not be sufficient to provide quality visitor amenities and operational facilities.

It further urged the government to permit the sale of all categories of alcoholic beverages and cocktails, similar to practices followed in leading beach tourism destinations across the country.

To encourage investor confidence, the association recommended that licence fees remain unchanged during the licence period instead of being subjected to annual escalation. It also sought a minimum licence or lease tenure of five years, arguing that the proposed three-year period may not be adequate for infrastructure development and recovery of investments.

The association additionally requested the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department to frame comprehensive operational guidelines in consultation with stakeholders, including hospitality industry representatives and tourism operators.

Swamy expressed confidence that incorporating these suggestions would strengthen the policy, boost tourism, generate employment, and contribute significantly to the economic growth of Andhra Pradesh’s coastal regions.