Panaji: With drowning incidents rising at waterfalls, chief minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday urged visitors to follow safety precautions.Goa police have begun registering first information reports (FIRs) after state govt directed strict enforcement, including FIRs against those engaging in prohibited water-related activities at waterfalls and similar natural sites.District collectors have issued orders banning swimming, bathing, entering the water, diving, and cliff-jumping. The order does not restrict public access to waterfall areas.The directive will remain in force for 60 days unless withdrawn earlier. The authorities said at least six people have died in drowning incidents at waterfalls and other water bodies in the past month.Police had earlier warned district administrations about heightened monsoon drowning risks at waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, and lakes that draw large numbers of locals and tourists. Officials said visitors continue to enter unsafe areas despite warnings and signage, with risks including unpredictable depths, slippery terrain, and sudden underwater currents.Guided eco-tourism activities conducted or authorised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) will be allowed, provided all safety protocols are followed.
