Goa has the capacity to elevate its gambling industry’s performance following the example set by leading gaming locations to the liking of Hong Kong. In a recent statement coming from Vijai Sardesai, Agriculture Minister of Goa, claimed the offshore casino venues currently residing in the Mandovi River should change their manner of operation, making way for the complete makeover of the area and its transformation into a premium gaming strip. A new Goa Public Gambling Bill could also help with this transition.
This Sunday brought the position of the Minister striving to elevate Goa’s gaming performance in the upcoming years and make it more appealing to foreigners interested in utilizing its offerings. Just like every region still under construction, the area could utilize example previously set by advanced gambling locations, such as Hong Kong. Casino ships in the area have been a preferred gambling offering for people from near and far, as regulations do not apply on them.
Land-Based Operation Possible
Gaming on such a casino ship typically takes place some 12 nautical miles south of Hong Kong, where the established regulations are not able to affect players’ experience. The all-encompassing gaming adventure includes buffet meals, entrance in more family-friendly entertainment offerings, as well as accommodation for those in need of rest. This model of operation has been in existence for many years now, and Goa is willing to capitalize on its success.
According to Minister Sardesai, at the moment floating casino venues in Goa negatively impact the environment with their operation. In order to make the most of its resources, the Panaji coastline, as well as the opposite bank of the Mandovi River, should witness casino development. Reis Magos has the potential to be an attractive gaming location preferred by casino patrons for its culture as well as for its gaming offerings. The Reis Magos Fort and the Reis Magos Church are projected to attract more individuals.
The two coasts will be able to provide players with improved gaming possibilities while preserving the fragile environment in the region, as recommended by Minister Sardesai. There are six floating casino facilities currently in operation and even though the government of Goa has appointed a deadline for their relocation, no further actions have been taken.
The shift has been considered for the past three years, but casino developers and the government have not yet announced the new deepwater locations where casinos would operate. Goa’s Public Works Minister Sudin Dhavalikar added six more months of time for the developers to find their new spots and leave Mandovi River for good.
Change of Regulation Restricts Locals
Any changes could be made possible by the draft regulation that emerges just now aiming to replace the existing Goa Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976. With its help, Goa state lawmakers strive to improve the current casino field in the advanced region. Casino operation will be allowed to take place independent of hotel locations, overturning the current regulation.
Right now, land-based casino operators have to conduct their business in the vicinity of a hotel venue in order to be considered legal. In turn, hotel venues will continue offering electronic gaming devices solely. Through the change, gaming could move closer to the harbor transferring the area into a gaming haven for enthusiasts from all four corners of the world.
Speaking of casino patrons, if the draft bill receives a green light in the upcoming weeks locals will have to bid farewell to their chances of entering a casino venue in the state of Goa. Penalties for those who trespass the law reach some Rs500 as well as up to 12 months behind bars.
While locals face significant penalties according to the new regulation, casino developers are not eligible for any punishment in the case of professional misconduct against players. Uncertainties and the lack of adequate regulation are issues revolving in the gaming field of Goa for quite some time now, prompting the need for work towards better player protection.
Operators of floating casino vessels currently residing in Mandovi River will have the permission to continue their operation in the next four years, with the potential for further operation once they apply for a brick-and-mortar facility in the appointed casino area of Goa.
