Monsoon Travel in Goa: Waterfalls Managed by the State Forest Development Corporation Now Welcoming Visitors

The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) has clarified that the recent ban on accessing natural water bodies in the state does not apply to waterfalls managed by the Goa Forest Department, which will remain accessible to tourists as part of monsoon tourism activities.

GFDC chairperson Dr. Deviya Rane confirmed on Tuesday that the waterfalls in forests under the GFDC’s oversight will continue to welcome visitors throughout the monsoon season. “Waterfalls under the forest department’s [jurisdiction] 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 media.

This announcement comes after the directive on Monday from the North and South Goa district administrations, which prohibited entry, swimming, and bathing at waterfalls, rivers, lakes, abandoned quarries, and other natural water bodies under their jurisdiction. These orders were issued in response to “recurring and grave” incidents of drowning during the monsoon season.
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The district magistrates warned that anyone found in violation of these restrictions would face legal penalties. However, Rane emphasized that tourism at forest waterfalls is conducted with strict safety measures in place. “All tourism activities will be under the supervision of forest staff and lifeguards assigned to ensure the safety of tourists,” she explained, noting that life jackets and other protective gear will be provided. Entry points to these eco-tourism sites are managed through designated checkpoints, where essential facilities are available.

“Thus, the general public is urged not to be confused by the directives issued by 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, labeling it a reckless decision that jeopardizes visitor safety. Party president Amit Patkar, in a statement released on Tuesday, referred to the initiative as a “death trap wrapped in PR.”

“How many lives of Goans must be sacrificed before the BJP ceases to politicize public safety?” he questioned. Patkar accused the ruling party and Rane, a BJP MLA, of blatantly defying district-level restrictions in favor of promoting monsoon tourism despite the associated dangers.