Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jun 30: The Goa government has imposed a 60-day ban on several water-related activities at waterfalls and other natural water bodies following a series of drowning incidents that claimed at least six lives over the past month.
The order, issued by the district collectors of North and South Goa, prohibits swimming, bathing, entering water, diving and cliff-jumping at waterfalls and similar locations. However, the directive does not restrict public access to these tourist destinations.
Authorities have also directed police to register First Information Reports (FIRs) against individuals found violating the restrictions as part of stricter enforcement measures aimed at preventing further fatalities during the monsoon season.
The order will remain in force for 60 days unless withdrawn earlier.
Officials said the decision was prompted by a rise in drowning cases at waterfalls, rivers, lakes and abandoned quarries, which continue to attract large numbers of tourists and local visitors despite repeated safety warnings.
Goa Police had earlier alerted district administrations about the heightened risk posed by swollen water bodies during the monsoon, citing hazards such as slippery rocks, sudden changes in water depth and strong underwater currents.
Despite warning signs and repeated advisories, many visitors continue to enter prohibited areas, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
The government clarified that organised eco-tourism activities conducted or authorised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) will continue, provided all prescribed safety protocols are strictly followed.
The restrictions will not apply to personnel from government agencies engaged in official duties, including the police, Fire and Emergency Services, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), forest and revenue departments, or other authorities involved in rescue, disaster management, inspections and law enforcement.
Exemptions have also been provided for individuals who receive written authorisation from competent authorities to undertake official, scientific, environmental or public utility work.
The administration has instructed all visitors to waterfalls, trekking trails and eco-tourism destinations to comply with directions issued by government officials, forest staff, police personnel, authorised guides and safety signage installed at these locations.
Officials warned that violations of the order will attract legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
District Magistrates and Sub-Divisional Magistrates have been empowered under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 to identify violations, register FIRs and initiate prosecution before the appropriate courts.
The notification was jointly issued by North Goa Collector Ankit Yadav and South Goa Collectors Egna Cleetus and Kushavati as part of the state's efforts to enhance public safety during the ongoing monsoon season.