Goa’s tourism department has introduced a new set of regulations, announced by tourism director Kedar Naik, which categorize 19 popular tourist activities as punishable “nuisances.” The aim is to safeguard the state’s beaches and tourist hotspots — allowing police and tourism officials to take immediate action rather than responding only after a complaint arises.
So what activities are prohibited now? Here’s the traveler’s cheat sheet:
– Hosting unlicensed beach parties or events — that spontaneous sundowner gathering with music on the sand? Better get it approved first.
– Engaging unregistered guides or masseurs — that amiable “masseur” or “guide” approaching you on the beach could get you into trouble as well. The directive specifically highlights “masseurs, vagabonds, hawkers” offering unauthorized services.
– Purchasing cruise or water-sport tickets from unofficial sellers — stick with licensed operators; seeking tickets from unapproved spots is now illegal.
– Drinking in prohibited areas, or breaking glass bottles — public drinking outside allowed zones, and shattered bottles left on the sand, are both highlighted.
– Cooking or disposing of waste outside designated zones — that beach barbecue or roadside meal should remain within marked areas.
– Unauthorized river cruises or water sports — ride only with authorized operators.
– Blocking emergency, lifeguard, or beach-cleaning vehicles, or driving on the sand — avoid bringing vehicles onto the beach itself.
– Disposing of waste, sewage, chemicals, or oil near or on the beach — this applies to both businesses and individuals.
If you are caught breaking any of these rules, fines start at ₹5,000 and can escalate to ₹1 lakh. In addition to the fine, you could also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 — the law regarding noncompliance with a public official’s order.
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