In Goa, where the monsoons transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise, waterfalls become irresistible attractions for locals and tourists alike. The gushing waters, cool mist, and forested surroundings offer the perfect setting for rejuvenation.
But this season, the joy of monsoon tourism has been muddled by confusion revealing a lack of coordination within the State machinery itself.
Recently, the South Goa district administration issued what could be dubbed a fatwa against waterfall visits. The order banned swimming and any form of bathing at waterfalls across the district, citing safety concerns.
The rationale, while rooted in public safety, came across as abrupt and anti-tourism. It sparked outrage and confusion, especially among nature lovers and tourism industry stakeholders who bank on monsoon experiences as a unique Goan attraction.
However, the situation has now taken a swift turn. Thanks to Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, who has stepped in at the right moment to set the record straight. The minister categorically stated that there is no blanket ban on visiting waterfalls or other popular monsoon spots, bringing immense relief to waterfall enthusiasts.
The minister categorically stated that there is no blanket ban on visiting waterfalls or other popular monsoon spots
Khaunte, who just recently stressed on full-house monsoon tourism in Goa, emphasised that the government's focus would be on ensuring visitor safety in collaboration with the Forest Department and the Goa Forest Development Corporation.
The minister's clarification is welcome, but it has also exposed a deeper issue: the glaring disconnect between various government sections. It appeared that the left hand did not know what the right hand was doing.
On one side, local authorities issued restrictive orders, and on the other, the tourism ministry worked to promote Goa as a welcoming, year-round destination. This kind of fatwa doesn't just inconvenience tourists; it damages Goa's reputation as a tourist-friendly State.
While the intention to prevent accidents at waterfalls is laudable, the approach must be balanced and well-communicated. Banning access outright is not a sustainable solution. Instead, what Goa needs is a clear, well-coordinated safety framework that allows people to enjoy nature responsibly.
Signages, lifeguards, guided access, railings and emergency response systems are just some of the measures that could be implemented at popular waterfall spots.
While the intention to prevent accidents at waterfalls is laudable, the approach must be balanced and well-communicated.
Of course, the responsibility doesn’t rest solely with the government. Visitors, too, must exercise basic caution.
Goa has seen numerous unfortunate incidents involving tourists who, emboldened by alcohol or overconfidence, wade into treacherous waters or attempt stunts near slippery rocks. The sense of adventure must come with responsibility because nature is unpredictable.
The blame game that often follows after accidents at waterfalls serves no one. If a visitor, under the influence of alcohol, slips and falls, the responsibility lies squarely on them. If someone ventures into deep waters without knowing how to swim, it is not the State that has failed them, but their own judgment.
People must recognise that their safety begins with their own actions.
The blame game that often follows after accidents at waterfalls serves no one. If a visitor, under the influence of alcohol, slips and falls, the responsibility lies squarely on them.
Yet, this doesn’t absolve the government of its duties. The most frequented spots must have some kind of a safety net. Authorities must conduct risk assessments ahead of each monsoon season and make this information public.
Public awareness campaigns, particularly aimed at domestic tourists unfamiliar with Goa’s terrain, could go a long way in preventing tragedies.
In the age of social media, a single tragic incident can cast a long shadow over an entire tourism season. Goa cannot afford this, especially as it tries to diversify beyond its party image and promote nature-based, wellness-oriented tourism.
If we want people to discover the monsoon magic of Goa safely, both the State and the citizens need to meet halfway.
There’s also the matter of respect, not just for nature, but for the culture and values of Goa. Tourists must remember they are guests here and must behave like guests, not rowdies.
There’s also the matter of respect, not just for nature, but for the culture and values of Goa. Tourists must remember they are guests here and must behave like guests, not rowdies.
Behaving irresponsibly not only endangers lives but also offends local sensibilities and brings a bad name to Goa tourism at large. The same goes for locals.
Ultimately, Goa's waterfalls are a gift, a source of awe, refreshment and joy. They should be accessible, but not without accountability.
The recent confusion must serve as a wake-up call for better coordination between departments and a reminder to the public: come in peace, come prepared, and let the monsoon be a season of safe discovery, not sorrow.