The Goa Forest Department has initiated action against eight persons from Khanapur, Karnataka, for illegally entering the restricted Jalvani waterfall area located within the core zone of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. The operation was carried out by staff of the Parwad Anti-Poaching Camp, and cases have been registered against the offenders under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Further investigation is underway.
According to the Forest Department, Jalvani waterfall lies within the highly sensitive core zone of the sanctuary, where public entry is strictly prohibited due to frequent wildlife movement and safety concerns. Despite repeated warnings and restrictions, some visitors continue to trespass into the protected area.
With the latest action, the total number of persons booked for unauthorized entry into the Jalvani waterfall area has risen to 54. The department has previously taken similar action against several violators and has intensified enforcement efforts to curb such incidents.
To strengthen protection measures, the Forest Department has established a dedicated Anti-Poaching Camp near Parwad village on the Karnataka-Goa border adjoining the sanctuary. Forest guards and staff stationed at the camp conduct round-the-clock patrols and maintain strict surveillance over movement within the protected forest area.
Special attention is being given to the Jalvani Waterfall region, forest trails, and border entry points that are frequently used by trespassers. Monitoring and enforcement activities have been enhanced to safeguard wildlife and prevent unauthorized access.
Forest officials noted that waterfalls attract a large number of visitors during the monsoon season. However, many such locations within protected forest areas are extremely dangerous due to slippery rocks, sudden surges in water flow, deep gorges, and the presence of wild animals. Entering prohibited zones not only constitutes a legal offence but also poses serious risks to human life.
The Goa Forest Department has appealed to tourists and nature enthusiasts to visit only those waterfall destinations that are officially permitted and equipped with necessary safety measures. Warning signboards have been installed at key entry points and sensitive locations in and around the sanctuary, and visitors have been urged to strictly adhere to these instructions.
Officials further clarified that strict action will continue against anyone found entering the sanctuary's core zone without authorization. Patrols and enforcement drives will be intensified to protect the region's biodiversity, forest resources, and wildlife habitats. With monsoon tourism gaining momentum, the department has warned that no leniency will be shown to those violating sanctuary regulations.
