Shri Kedar A. Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, has announced the enforcement of new rules for tourists, with fines of up to Rs 1 lakh for violating them. The move aims to protect Goa’s beaches and tourist destinations by keeping them clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
So, if you are planning to visit Goa in the coming months, there are certain things you should avoid. The Goa Tourism Department has officially listed 19 activities that are now considered punishable under the notified ‘nuisance’ rules.
These rules give the police and tourism officials the authority to take immediate action against people found violating them. Depending on the nature and seriousness of the offence, the fine can range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1 lakh. In some cases, violators may also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, for disobeying the orders of a public servant.
The 19 rules:
1. Organising beach parties or public events without prior permission. Even small beach gatherings with loud music may require approval from the authorities.
2. Tourists are advised not to take services from unregistered beach masseurs or guides.
3. For water sports and river cruises, buy tickets only from licensed operators or authorised counters. Officials have warned against purchasing tickets from unofficial sellers.
4. Setting up unauthorised ticket counters for river cruises or water sports is prohibited.
5. Make sure the river cruise or water sports operator has valid permission. Operating or using unauthorised services is illegal.
6. Drinking alcohol in public places is not allowed, except in designated areas where it is permitted.
7. Breaking or leaving glass bottles on beaches is a punishable offence.
8. Cooking in public places or on beaches, except in designated areas, is prohibited.
9. Throwing waste on beaches.
10. Littering or leaving garbage at tourist spots.
11.Dumping sewage, oil, or chemicals near beaches. This applies to both individuals and businesses.
12.Driving vehicles on beaches.
13. Blocking lifeguard vehicles.
14. Blocking emergency vehicles.
15. Blocking beach-cleaning vehicles.
16. Allowing unauthorised hawkers to operate at tourist spots.
17. Buying from or encouraging illegal ticket hawkers.
18. Carrying out unauthorised commercial activities by unlicensed operators or vagabonds at tourist locations.
19. Any other activity classified under the notified nuisance rules that affects cleanliness, public safety, or authorised tourism operations.
The message is very simple. Don’t book tickets from unauthorised operators or services. Avoid drinking in public except in permitted areas. Keep the beaches clean, dispose of waste properly, and avoid any illegal activities outside the designated areas. Following these basic rules can help you avoid fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1 lakh and let you enjoy your vacation without any unnecessary trouble.
These are not complicated rules. They are basic civic responsibilities that we should follow wherever we go. Mumbai is also a popular tourist destination. Imagine how much cleaner the city would look if everyone simply disposed of waste in dustbins instead of littering. The responsibility is simple, it should be a rule that every citizen follows, not just tourists.
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