Team Herald
MARGAO: In the wake of the tragic deaths of a tourist and a pilot in a paragliding accident at Keri, a resident of Colva has raised serious concerns about the ongoing illegal paragliding activities at Colva beach.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Simao Rodrigues, a long-time activist opposed to these operations, expressed his frustration with the authorities’ lack of action and warned that, if left unchecked, a similar incident could soon occur at Colva.
Speaking to O Heraldo, Rodrigues, who has been campaigning against illegal paragliding for several years, said, “It’s only a matter of time before something like this happens at Colva beach. Despite numerous reports and complaints to the authorities, illegal paragliding activities continue unchecked. The situation is dire, and public safety is at great risk.”
The tragic accident, which occurred on January 18, claimed the lives of Shivani Dabale and Suman Nepali after a paragliding cable snapped mid-flight. The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of such activities and the lack of proper regulations.
Rodrigues commented, “This is a shocking tragedy, and it could have been prevented. We are witnessing illegal paragliding with no safety measures in place, putting not only tourists but also the residents of Colva in danger.”
He also highlighted that the Colva village panchayat had previously addressed the issue, passing a resolution against such activities. In November 2024, the panchayat even wrote to the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), urging them to stop issuing NOCs or permissions for motor-powered paragliding in Colva.
The letter cited the risks associated with these activities, including low-altitude flights, mechanical failures, and noise pollution from the motors. However, despite these warnings, no substantial action has been taken to resolve the issue.
“I have been fighting against this nuisance for over two years now. I even warned Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte about the risks, especially after the incident at Keri. Yet, despite objections from the community and authorities, motorized paragliding continues at Colva beach,” Rodrigues added. He further said, “The authorities have failed to take any meaningful action, and the safety of both residents and tourists remains in jeopardy.”
As the issue continues to escalate, local residents and activists are demanding immediate intervention to halt illegal paragliding activities at Colva beach and ensure the safety of all those visiting the popular tourist destination.
