Goa has already been receiving rain for the past 2 weeks and the sea has gotten very choppy. Red flags and lifeguards have been spotted dotting the coast and warning people that wading into the sea can be a risky affair.
Beach-lovers have a mixed reaction to the monsoons as some enjoy the ‘peace of the storm’ and others complain their sunset walks are no longer possible. Mahika De Souza, student of Agnel Institute of Food Crafts and Culinary Sciences, said, “We all love the beach and we love the rains. Some prefer ‘cosy-ing’ up at home and some get a thrill experiencing the cool drops falling on their palms while outside. Both the rain and beach put together are a beauty on its own. The cool sea breeze and the scent of wet mud and the beautiful clouds are what attract the people to the beaches.”
People who have missed the summer and decided to head to the beach before the season officially starts have been banned by lifeguards from entering the water. The currents pose a great threat to swimmers whether experienced or not. Sumitra K.C., a senior mass communication student at Don Bosco College, Panjim said, “Although I love going to the beach, I try to avoid it during the monsoon season. But I can’t resist it sometimes so I try to stick to the seashore and avoid going for a swim. The heavy current scares me. Also, the tourists visiting Goa during this time should do the same. It’s not permitted to go for a swim but tourists, despite all the warnings, do it and end up in trouble.”
Along with the dangers that drag people into the water there is the problem of garbage being dumped on the beach. Shimei Nathan, a student of St.Xavier College, Mapusa, talked about how hazardous the beach becomes during the monsoon season. She said “The garbage starts washing up on shore which includes glass, plastic and other harmful items that might hurt us. Rip tides and rough waves bring back some bad memories.”
She described a childhood family experience when they visited the beach towards the end of the monsoon season and almost drowned in a rip tide. “We were playing this game of jumping with the waves and suddenly the sand under us disappeared. We were children so we panicked and but luckily my mom and aunt were with us. They also panicked because they had to keep afloat four children.” She continued saying, “after what felt like forever, lifeguards came on a jetski and plucked us from the sea. They brought us to the shore where we laid on the sand and so many people crowded around us.” She proceeded to warn any beach-goers to be wary of the currents and tides of the erratic ocean.
Mahika talked about the precautions she takes before she decides to go to the shore. “Whenever I go to the beach during the rains, I prefer checking the weather reports so as to not get caught in the heavy showers, but I’d rather enjoy the little drizzle and the cool waters. As for the locals, we’re aware of how the rains are here in Goa, so we tend to avoid going into the waters as the sea is unpredictable and often choppy and rough during the monsoon season. For the tourists that come to enjoy Goa in the rains, they should avoid going too deep into the waters and go to beaches that have the lifeguards on duty always. It’s fun staying at home during this season but for those adventurous souls out there, live in this season with safety and excitement!”
Sonal Naik, MA student at St. Xaviers College, Mapusa spoke about the measures she takes during these times. “I personally would avoid going to beaches when I know that there is likelihood of rain. People who do not like rain should avoid going to beaches. It might cause them discomfort and uneasiness if they get stuck in the rain. One has to keep in mind that beaches are safe, it’s safe due to lifeguards who are present but one has to be aware of the high tides and waves which have to be managed. One should avoid going for a swim because it’s risky with the increase in water levels. It’s also important to understand, consequences of engaging in an activity that might do more harm than good, for example- adventure ride boats.” She also spoke of the danger faced by tourists. She said, “Tourists should keep all the instructions in mind. They should not violate it, failure to do so could result in serious consequences. Drinking and drugs should be avoided by them as they are not aware of the atmosphere in Goa as they can be intimidated easily. They should also be mindful of the environment around them.”
In light of all the incidents that have happened in the past, Goa has taken extra precaution with beach safety. During the monsoon season, it has doubled up this year due to the unpredictable weather. Goan beaches are a sight to see, indeed, but Mother Nature has been having a few bad days and it is advised to skip the next few beach trips and enjoy the weather from the comforts of your home.
