Goa Khabar: The District Magistrate of South Goa has issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, prohibiting swimming, bathing, diving, cliff-jumping, and entering the water at waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, lakes, and other natural water bodies across the South Goa district for 60 days.
The order has been issued in view of the recurring drowning incidents reported during the monsoon season and aims to safeguard public life by preventing accidents at hazardous locations.
While entry to waterfalls is not prohibited, visitors are strictly barred from entering the water or engaging in any water-related activities. Guided eco-tourism visits conducted or authorised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) will continue to be permitted, subject to compliance with all prescribed safety protocols.
The prohibition will not apply to personnel of the Police Department, Fire and Emergency Services, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), or other government agencies performing official duties.
Authorities have urged the public to strictly comply with the order during the monsoon period to avoid accidents and ensure public safety.
