PANJIM: As over 26 lakh tourists are expected to come to Goa during the forthcoming tourist season, the state government has whi le welcoming the tourists cautioned them against committing any offences by breaching cultural and moral codes, among others, in an advisory issued here.
Nudity on beaches and public places, drinking liquor on beaches and littering any open space will not only attract fine, but also jail.
“Observe decency and decorum in dress when visiting religious places such as temples, churches, mosque, etc. Nudity on beaches and public places is forbidden and punishable under the law,” reads one of 39 instructions issued by the Tourism Department. “Do not drink on the beaches as it is banned and punishable with fine if one is found breaking empty glass bottles and throwing them on the beach,” the advisory says.
Besides the advisory warns of strict penal action for drug trafficking, traveling without legal documents, smoking and spitting at public places, chewing and spitting of gutka. The advisory also cautions tourists from indulging in ‘permissive sex as you run risk of being afflicted by disease such as AIDS. This disease has no cure.’
The department has also paedophiles to stay away from children. Indecent dressing by tourists, particularly by foreign nationals, drinking alcohol on beaches, littering and nuisance caused to women tourists have been the centre of discussion in the last couple of months. Concerned legislators and various stakeholders demanded curbing the menace and ensure clean tourism in the State.
Considering that more tourists are on the hit list of thieves and conmen, the vacationers are asked to remain watchful of their belongings during their stay here. In yet another advice to avoid being cheated by illegal touts, the tourists have been told to hire government travel agents and tour operators for local sightseeing and excursion tours.
Other highlights of the advisory include
Carry on your person legal documents like license and passports
While visiting religious places, please have respect for local tradition/customs
Consult lifeguard before entering waters/ read sign boards and follow instructions
Swim in safe areas only
Deposit all waste at nearest dust bin available.
Do not be coerced into shopping by touts/guides/taxi drivers or strangers
Do not drive any vehicle on the beach. It is prohibited
Do not buy articles made from rare/endangered species of animals as such articles are banned under the law
