Goa, Nov. 12 -- The All Goa Shack Owners Association has sounded an alarm over the growing menace of touts on the state's beaches, warning that unchecked harassment of tourists is severely affecting Goa's image and tourism industry.

Association President Cruz Cardozo said the constant interference by touts has led to a nearly 50% drop in beach tourism, particularly among foreign visitors who come to Goa seeking peace and relaxation.

"The beach is meant for peace and leisure, but these touts keep troubling tourists and disturb their privacy," Cardozo said, adding that such behavior is driving visitors away from Goa's coastal belt.

He urged the tourism and law enforcement authorities to take strict action against touts operating along th...