Steps to ensure visitor safety, improve amenities reviewed
PANAJI
As the waterfalls set to become a major attraction during the monsoon season, the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC) has initiated plans to identify and operationalise new waterfall destinations while simultaneously reviewing safety and visitor management measures at existing sites.
The decision was taken during the 121st board meeting of the GFDC chaired by Chairman Deviya Rane in the presence of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Kamal Datta, Managing Director K Ramesh Kumar, General Manager Amar Heblekar and other board members. The meeting reviewed ongoing initiatives and deliberated on key projects aimed at strengthening eco-tourism, enhancing visitor experience and improving public amenities across the State.
In an information shared post meeting, Rane said that the board reviewed preparedness measures at various waterfall destinations ahead of the monsoon influx of tourists. Discussions centred on ensuring visitor safety, improving amenities and creating seamless facilities at nature tourism sites managed by the corporation.
“The GFDC also deliberated on plans to open and operationalise new waterfall destinations during the upcoming season to further promote nature-based tourism in the State,” she said.
Apart from waterfall tourism, the board reviewed ongoing eco-tourism projects across Goa. Discussions focused on upgrading facilities at the Sylvan Bondla Eco-Tourism Cottages, assessing booking trends and improving website management to enhance accessibility and visitor engagement.
The progress of the Children's Park at Selaulim was also reviewed as part of efforts to strengthen recreational and nature-based tourism infrastructure.
Rane said the meeting emphasised balancing tourism promotion with environmental conservation. The corporation reiterated its focus on responsible eco-tourism and sustainable development while preserving Goa's natural heritage.
The proposed expansion of waterfall destinations is expected to provide visitors with new nature-based experiences while potentially dispersing tourist traffic across multiple locations, reducing pressure on heavily visited sites during the monsoon season.
The developments form part of the State's broader strategy to promote eco-tourism as an alternative tourism segment while leveraging Goa's rich forest and biodiversity resources.
