Goa Government Conducts Unified Coordination for Tourism Safety

The Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant today chaired a high-level meeting at the Mantralaya, Porvorim with Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS; Director General of Police, Shri Alok Kumar IPS; Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik; and senior officials of all concerned departments along with the tourism stakeholders.

Context
- Goa is entering its peak tourism season, with heightened visitor footfall across beaches, waterfalls, nightlife venues, and adventure sports hubs.
- Recent incidents (like the Birch, Arpora fire) prompted the government to strengthen safety measures and coordination across departments.

High-Level Meeting
- Chaired by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant with Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, Chief Secretary, DGP, Director of Tourism, and other senior officials.
- Aim: future-ready safety mechanisms and robust enforcement across the tourism ecosystem.

Key Safety Measures
- Strict monitoring of hotspots: beach belts, waterfalls, high-footfall zones.
- Adventure & water sports: mandatory inspections of life jackets, equipment, and operational procedures.
- Nightlife venues: fire and safety compliance, licensed liquor timings, police verification of staff.
- Transport: crackdown on illegal rent-a-vehicle practices, dual licensing, and private vehicles used commercially.
- Touts & bouncers: firm action against disturbances or confrontations with tourists.
- Joint Enforcement & Monitoring Committee: inspections of documentation, licensing, and safety standards; violators face shutdown until compliance.

Visitor Guidance
- Lifeguards deployed across Goa’s coastline year-round.
- Tourists advised to follow lifeguard instructions and respect safety norms.

Government’s Message
- Goa remains a trusted and welcoming destination, but growth must be rooted in responsibility, safety, and sustainability.
- The initiative balances visitor experience with community well-being, ensuring tourism benefits both locals and travelers.

This coordinated effort signals Goa’s determination to elevate safety standards while maintaining its reputation as India’s premier leisure destination.