Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte expressed strong opposition to a circular from the Forest Department that prohibits tourists from visiting all waterfalls in the state during the monsoon season. Speaking to reporters, Khaunte criticised the circular issued by a senior Forest Department official recently, arguing that it undermines efforts to boost tourism in Goa’s hinterland.
“I have already raised this issue with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and will soon discuss it with Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane,” PTI quoted Khaunte as saying. He emphasised that crucial role waterfalls play in attracting tourists to remote areas of the state.
The tourism minister objected to the decision of a Delhi-based Forest Department officer who cited safety concerns while banning access to waterfalls that come alive in the state during the monsoon season. Khaunte said that a blanket ban is not the solution.
“While safety is paramount, we need to find viable solutions,” Khaunte stressed. He suggested that the state could designate certain waterfalls as safe for visitors while restricting access to others where incidents of drowning are prevalent, reported CNBC TV18.
Highlighting the economic benefits for locals from tourists visiting waterfalls, Khaunte said that collaboration between the forest tourism department is important. He emphasised that hinterland tourism is crucial for the state’s economy, particularly as it benefits local communities. Goa’s Tourism Department will raise awareness among tourists and residents about the importance of assessing the safety of locations before visiting them, Khaunte added.
