Panaji: The Goa Government has issued a statewide drowning advisory as heavy monsoon rains continue to increase the risk of accidents across the state. The advisory urges residents and tourists to stay away from rivers, waterfalls, beaches, reservoirs, and other water bodies during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding.
Issued by the Revenue Department through the Goa State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), the advisory forms part of the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and reduce monsoon-related incidents.
Authorities have appealed to the public to exercise caution as water levels continue to rise in several parts of Goa.
The advisory warns against:
- Entering rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or waterfalls.
- Swimming in water bodies during the monsoon.
- Crossing flooded roads, bridges, causeways, or submerged pathways.
- Ignoring warning signs or barricades.
Officials noted that even shallow, fast-flowing water can pose serious risks during heavy rainfall. The government has also issued specific guidance for visitors travelling to Goa during the monsoon season.
Tourists have been advised to:
- Visit only notified beaches.
- Participate in water sports only at authorised facilities.
- Follow instructions issued by lifeguards and local authorities.
- Avoid entering restricted or unsafe areas.
Authorities emphasized that recreational activities should only be undertaken where appropriate safety arrangements are in place.
As part of the advisory, the government has discouraged several outdoor water-based activities during adverse weather conditions.
These include:
- Swimming
- Boating
- Rafting
- Fishing
unless they are officially permitted and supported by adequate safety measures. The advisory aims to minimise preventable accidents during the ongoing monsoon season.
The government has appealed to parents and guardians to ensure that children are never left unattended near water bodies. Officials stressed that rivers, ponds, reservoirs, beaches, and waterfalls can become particularly hazardous during periods of heavy rainfall.
Families have been encouraged to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. For those travelling by boat, the advisory recommends wearing BIS-approved life jackets at all times.
The government has also strongly discouraged the consumption of alcohol before or during activities near water bodies, citing increased safety risks.
These precautions are intended to reduce the likelihood of accidents and improve emergency preparedness. Authorities have advised the public to remain informed by following official weather forecasts and alerts.
Residents and tourists are encouraged to use government-supported mobile applications, including:
- Sachet
- Mausam
- Meghdoot
- Damini
The government has also asked people to avoid visiting rivers, reservoirs, waterfalls, and coastal areas whenever heavy rainfall warnings are in effect.
In case of emergencies or if unsafe conditions are observed, citizens have been asked to dial the national emergency helpline:
Emergency Number: 112
Officials also urged the public to cooperate with rescue and evacuation teams whenever required.
