Due to a surge in drowning incidents during the monsoon, the District Magistrate of North Goa has imposed a temporary ban on entering or swimming in natural water bodies across the district. This includes rivers, waterfalls, lakes, ponds, quarries, and similar sites. The restriction is effective for 30 days and aims to prevent further loss of life during the rainy season, which often causes water levels to rise and create hazardous conditions.
This safety measure follows multiple fatal incidents, including the recent drowning of a police constable at a quarry in Sirsaim. Reports indicate that over 60 drowning deaths have been recorded in Goa between January and May this year. Authorities have been asked to identify high-risk zones, put up warning signs in multiple languages, increase patrolling, and ensure strict implementation of the order. Local police stations, forest officials, municipal councils, and panchayats have been instructed to submit reports on enforcement activities during the ban period. The public is advised to stay away from unsafe water bodies and cooperate with law enforcement for their own safety.
