Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte on Thursday stressed the need for both tourists and locals to exercise caution when visiting potentially hazardous locations within the coastal state. He expressed concern that individuals often venture into perilous spots, influenced by content shared by social media influencers, without adequately assessing the associated risks.
Highlighting the concerning trend, Khaunte cited instances where individuals, inspired by videos shared by Instagram influencers, recklessly engaged in activities like swimming in abandoned quarries filled with water. Tragically, such ventures have led to fatalities due to a lack of awareness about the inherent dangers present in these environments.
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In response to these challenges, Khaunte added that the tourism department will soon issue a comprehensive circular aimed at raising awareness among tourists and locals alike. This initiative seeks to educate individuals on the importance of conducting thorough safety assessments before setting out on any adventures, particularly in potentially hazardous locations.
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Despite appeals from Chief Minister Pramod Sawant urging the public to refrain from swimming in deep waters, incidents of drowning persist in the coastal state. To address this ongoing issue, district collectors in both North Goa and South Goa recently issued directives prohibiting swimming activities in various water bodies, including waterfalls, abandoned quarries, and rivers, ahead of the impending monsoon season. If reports are to go by, the ban on swimming in these water bodies will remain in place until further orders.
These circulars, issued by the district administrations, serve as a stern reminder of the potential dangers associated with swimming in these areas. Furthermore, they stress the legal implications of disregarding such directives, citing Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to disobedience that poses threats to human life, health, or safety.
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The efforts spearheaded by the Tourism Minister and district authorities aim to mitigate the risks associated with irresponsible recreational activities in Goa’s natural landscapes. By fostering a culture of safety awareness and compliance, stakeholders are making all efforts to safeguard the well-being of both residents and visitors, ensuring a more enjoyable and secure tourism experience in the coastal paradise of Goa.