Panaji: In the wake of a spate of drowning deaths at waterfalls and natural water bodies, state govt on Monday ordered strict enforcement measures, including the filing of FIRs against individuals engaging in prohibited water-related activities at such sites.The order, issued by the district collectors, bans activities such as swimming, bathing, entering water, diving and cliff-jumping at waterfalls and similar natural locations. However, it does not prohibit public entry to waterfall areas.The directive will remain in force for 60 days unless withdrawn earlier. Authorities said at least six people have died in drowning incidents at waterfalls and other water bodies in the past month alone.Goa police had earlier alerted district administrations to the recurring and serious risk of drowning during the monsoon season, particularly at waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers and lakes that attract large numbers of locals and tourists. Officials noted that despite repeated warnings and signage, visitors continue to enter these unsafe locations, which are often characterised by unpredictable depths, slippery terrain, and sudden underwater currents.Under the notification, guided eco-tourism activities conducted or authorised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) will be permitted, provided all safety protocols are followed.The restrictions will not apply to personnel from agencies such as the police, fire and emergency services, national disaster response force (NDRF), state disaster response force (SDRF), forest and revenue departments, or other govt bodies engaged in rescue, inspection, disaster response or law enforcement duties. Exemptions will also be allowed for persons specifically authorised in writing by competent authorities for official, scientific, environmental or public utility work.Authorities have directed that all visitors to waterfalls, trekking routes and eco-tourism sites must strictly follow instructions issued by govt officials, forest staff, police personnel, authorised guides and on-site safety signage.Officials said violations of the order will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. District magistrates and sub-divisional magistrates in South Goa have been empowered under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 to identify violations, register FIRs and initiate legal proceedings before the appropriate courts.North Goa collector Ankit Yadav, along with South Goa collectors Egna Cleetus and Kushavati, issued the directive.
