Sarpanch expresses concern over environmental impact, safety of residents
MAPUSA
As adventure tourism gains traction in Goa, paramotoring – a motorised form of paragliding – is emerging as a major concern for the residents of Keri-Terekhol.
The activity, which involves motorised equipment for takeoff and flight, has amplified noise pollution in the area, leaving the local community increasingly distressed.
Sarpanch Dharati Siddharth Nagoji has been vocal about the disruptions caused by paramotoring.
“Paramotoring generates excessive noise, disturbing senior citizens and school students while further harming the environment,” Nagoji said.
She emphasised the broader environmental impact, stating that the activity has driven wild animals, including leopards, into the village, creating safety concerns for residents.
Currently, at least two agencies operate paramotoring activities in the area, while over a dozen conduct traditional paragliding ventures.
However, paramotoring’s unique ability to operate for extended durations and in diverse conditions has intensified its impact, making it a focal point of local opposition.
The Keri-Terekhol panchayat has taken a firm stance against these activities. In November 2024, the village body passed a resolution calling for a complete ban on paragliding in coastal areas.
“The village panchayat resolved to oppose these activities and requested the government not to grant permissions for such operations,” Nagoji said.
The resolution was forwarded to the Department of Tourism and Goa Police, urging immediate action.
Despite this, operators have reportedly dismissed the panchayat’s concerns, claiming they hold clearances from other departments and do not require local permissions.
Nagoji also highlighted another significant issue: the lack of financial benefit to the local community.
“The panchayat receives no revenue from these activities, despite the disruptions they cause,” she said.
The sarpanch reiterated that paramotoring has added a new layer of distress to the ongoing challenges posed by paragliding.
Noise pollution, environmental damage and disruption of wildlife have compounded the residents' frustrations, prompting the panchayat to demand stricter regulations.
The tragic death of a tourist and the paraglider pilot during a paragliding activity has further spotlighted safety concerns and the urgent need for government intervention.
