Goa’s Monsoon Tourism: Waterfalls Managed by State Forest Development Corporation Welcoming Visitors

The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) has pointed out that the recent statewide ban on access to natural water bodies does not apply to waterfalls managed by the Goa Forest Department, which will continue to be open for tourists as part of monsoon tourism initiatives.

On Tuesday, GFDC chairperson Dr. Deviya Rane confirmed that waterfalls within the areas managed by the GFDC will remain accessible to visitors during the monsoon season. “Waterfalls under the jurisdiction of the forest department will be open for tourists as part of the monsoon tourism activities promoted by the forest department and GFDC,” Rane stated in a public notice shared on social platforms.

Her statement follows Monday’s directive from the North and South Goa district administrations, which restricted entry, swimming, and bathing at waterfalls, rivers, lakes, abandoned quarries, and other natural water bodies under their control. These orders were issued due to “recurring and serious” drowning incidents during the monsoon season.
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The district magistrates warned that anyone found breaching these restrictions would face legal penalties. However, Rane emphasized that tourism activities at forest waterfalls adhere to strict safety protocols. “All tourism activities will be closely supervised by forest staff and lifeguards assigned to ensure the safety of tourists,” she noted, adding that life jackets and other safety gear are provided. Entry to these eco-tourism locations is regulated through designated check gates, where essential amenities are available.

“Therefore, the general public is urged not to misinterpret the orders issued by the DMs, as guided monsoon tourism activities/trekking in forest areas/waterfalls are not restricted in any way,” Rane clarified.

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Meanwhile, the Goa Congress has criticized the GFDC’s stance, deeming it a reckless decision that jeopardizes visitors’ lives. Party president Amit Patkar, in a statement released on Tuesday, referred to the initiative as a “death trap disguised as PR.”

“How many lives of Goans need to be lost before the BJP halts its political games with public safety?” he questioned. Patkar accused the ruling party and Rane, a BJP MLA, of blatantly disregarding district-level restrictions in favor of promoting monsoon tourism, despite the inherent dangers.