PANJIM: Two days after the Forest Department banned people from venturing into rivers and waterfalls due to the arrival of the monsoon, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane stated that the low-risk waterfalls which were open to the public last year will continue to be accessible this year, with the deployment of lifeguards and forest guards.
Speaking to reporters, he said directions to issue a fresh notice in this regard had been given. He, however, said that he will not take responsibility for opening medium and high-risk waterfalls to the public due to several mishaps that occurred at Mainapi and other waterfalls last year.
“The classification of waterfalls has been done by the Forest Department. We cannot open high-risk and medium-risk waterfalls for the public. There is no problem in allowing people to visit the low-risk waterfalls. The decision has been taken keeping in view the importance of people’s lives,” he said.
Earlier, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte mentioned that it is not practical to ban access to waterfalls altogether. He stated that the decision was taken without consulting tourism stakeholders.
“We are promoting monsoon tourism in which waterfalls play a major role. Many tourists come to Goa to see waterfalls. Even locals also visit them. There are many local people who depend on tourists. We can define and promote designated waterfalls. We cannot have a blanket ban on waterfalls,” he said.
On June 16, the Forest Department banned people from venturing into rivers and waterfalls due to the arrival of the monsoon.
In an order, the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden stated, “On account of the arrival of the monsoon in the State of Goa, there is a likelihood of a rise in water levels in rivers and waterfalls in forest areas. Therefore, venturing into rivers and waterfalls inside all protected areas shall be prohibited with effect from June 6, 2024, until further orders.”
On May 26, the Collectors of both districts also issued orders prohibiting swimming in waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, and other water bodies, citing the numerous drowning deaths that occur every year. The Collectors warned that non-compliance with the directive would constitute a violation of Section 188 of the IPC.
Sanguem locals, small businesses oppose Netravali waterfall ban
SANGUEM: Locals from Sanguem have objected to the government order banning entry into all waterfalls, on grounds that it adversely affects their livelihood. Trekkers and nature-lovers also condemned the government order, arguing that the monsoon season is the best time to visit the waterfalls due to the peak water flow. The ban on visiting waterfalls was enforced following the death of two persons at Savari waterfall last year.
While the death is unfortunate, it should not be used to ban visits to the falls, said one local, while pointing out that there are more deaths due to drowning in the sea.
“People have stopped coming to the waterfalls following the government order and this deprives people from getting the best view of the waterfalls and enjoy its true glory,” said Sayaji Dessai.
Rupesh Vernekar, another local, emphasised the economic impact, stating that the makeshift tea stalls and snack vendors who cater to visitors during the monsoon season have seen their businesses halted. These vendors, he pointed out, earn their primary income during this period, and the ban has now taken away this vital source of livelihood
