Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Nov 20: A beachside wedding at Mandrem has landed Riva Beach Resort in serious trouble after the establishment allegedly ignored repeated warnings from the Tourism Department and went ahead with the event without the mandatory permissions. The department has imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh and warned that the resort’s registration could be cancelled if violations continue.

According to officials, a tourist warden stationed at Mandrem beach first spotted the unauthorised set-up around 6 pm on Monday. With support from the tourism police, the warden halted the preparations and instructed the resort to dismantle the arrangements. Despite the intervention, the resort proceeded with the ceremony, prompting the department to initiate strict action.

Authorities noted that conducting a beach wedding without prior approval violates the Goa Tourist Places Protection and Maintenance Act, 2001, which prohibits any activity within a notified tourist zone that may cause nuisance, danger, annoyance or degradation of the area.

The resort has been directed to pay the penalty within seven days and has been issued a show-cause notice seeking an explanation for its actions. The Tourism Department has also asked why further proceedings should not be initiated under the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1982, which may include cancellation of the resort’s registration.

Tourism director Kedar Naik emphasised that Goa’s beaches are protected zones and any unauthorised event will invite tough action. He said that all tourism stakeholders must comply with the prescribed regulations to uphold responsible and sustainable tourism practices in the state.