THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
Over a month after an overcrowded boat carrying tourists capsized off Calangute beach, resulting in one death; the Tourism Department has barred the operator for three years for negligence and violation.
The vessel was found plying without valid permission and in violation of the Watersports Policy.
“An investigation revealed the lack of valid permissions and overloading. As a result, the respondent (Meena Coutinho) is barred from operating the vessel for three years, and all fees paid are forfeited. The Department is committed to enforcing safety and compliance in Goa’s water sports industry,” the department said.
The incident took place around 11 am on December 25, 2024, when a water sport boat carrying 15-20 tourists capsized off the beach. A 45-year-old man from Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri district died while several others were injured.
Citing the Ribandar Coastal Police Station's investigation report, Tourism Director Kedar Naik, in the order, stated that the boat owner had not obtained any permission from the department to carry out watersports activities or business at Calangute.
During the inquiry, the Tourism Department thereafter issued a show-cause notice to the respondent, seeking an explanation as to why action should not be taken against her for the violation and negligence. During the hearing on January 28, the order copy mentions, the police stated that the boat was over its capacity, which was accepted by the owner.
"Since the Respondent has accepted the submission of the Complainant and considering the material available on record, this Authority is of the considered opinion that the (Respondent) has carried passengers over and above the capacity, thus leading to the capsize of the boat. This has also led to the death of a passenger and injuries to others," it stated followed by the order.
In a separate order, the department imposed Rs 1 lakh fine on a paragliding company owner for allegedly running unauthorised paramotor flying activities at Keri beach which had left two persons dead.
