Goa Government Announces Joint Enforcement Drive to Strengthen Tourism Safety

Unified Coordination for Visitor Safety

The Goa Government has announced a unified coordination mechanism to strengthen tourism safety across the State. The decision followed a high-level meeting chaired by Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister, and Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, alongside V. Candavelou, Chief Secretary, Alok Kumar, Director General of Police, and Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, with senior officials and tourism stakeholders. The meeting was convened in response to recent incidents and growing concern within the tourism ecosystem.

After the discussions, the Chief Minister stated that the Government is taking all steps to prevent incidents such as the fire at Birch, Arpora. He directed all departments and stakeholders to adopt preventive measures and improve coordination as Goa enters its busiest tourism period. He emphasised closer monitoring of beach belts, waterfall zones and high-footfall areas, and reiterated that only licensed and compliant operations will be permitted to function.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the need for reinforced checks on adventure and water sports. He instructed operators to adhere to safety norms, including continuous inspection of life jackets, equipment and operational procedures.

He further stated that fire and safety compliance in nightclubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues must remain up to date. Establishments serving liquor must operate strictly within authorised timings, with violations resulting in licence cancellation. All tourism establishments, including hotels and nightlife venues, have been instructed to employ staff only after proper police verification. Visitors have been advised to follow lifeguard instructions at designated coastal points. Sawant noted that Goa remains the only State with trained lifeguards deployed across its coastline throughout the year.

Addressing tourism service standards, the Chief Minister said that strict action will be taken against touts and bouncers found disturbing or confronting visitors. He also announced firm action against illegal rent-a-vehicle practices, including dual licensing and the commercial use of private vehicles. Any operator violating licence conditions will face cancellation.

To ensure unified enforcement, the Government has set up a Joint Enforcement and Monitoring Committee. The committee will inspect establishments to verify licensing, documentation and safety compliance. Those found in violation will be required to shut operations until full compliance is achieved.

The Chief Minister said that these coordinated measures ensure Goa is prepared for the upcoming tourism season, with the safety and security of visitors remaining a priority during the festive months.

Speaking after the meeting, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said that Goa continues to be a trusted destination, and the State is focused on maintaining safety, coordination and service quality. He added that all departments are working together to support stakeholders and strengthen the visitor experience.

Khaunte said that while tourism growth has been steady, it must be rooted in responsibility. “We need a Goa that continues to attract visitors while protecting its people. A Goa that grows tourism without compromising safety or sustainability. A Goa that our children and future generations can be proud of,” he said.

The Government reiterated that, with strengthened safety systems, enhanced enforcement, and coordinated action, Goa is prepared for the forthcoming tourism season while prioritising both the visitor experience and community well-being.