PANAJI:
During the legislative session, Minister for Forests, Vishwajit Rane, addressed queries from MLA Vijai Sardesai regarding the state's waterfalls and springs, including their status and the tourism infrastructure around them.
The Minister listed several waterfalls and springs in Goa that attract tourists, which are located within protected and forest areas. Notable mentions include Dudhsagar Falls, Tambdi Surla, and the picturesque waterfalls in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, among others.
Regarding whether there are low-risk waterfalls open during the monsoon season, Rane explained that access to waterfalls during this time depends on periodic risk assessments. These assessments consider factors such as water levels, weather conditions, and accessibility.
Sardesai had also inquired about the Harvelem Waterfall, specifically its infrastructure condition. The Minister clarified that Harvelem Waterfall is located outside forest areas and is not under the purview of the forest department. As a result, specific details on its tourism infrastructure are not available in this context. However, he assured that the department conducts risk assessments to determine if waterfalls are open or closed during the monsoon.
The Minister assured that waterfalls within forest and protected areas are generally well-maintained. No significant issues of deterioration have been reported for these locations. Any repairs or restorations needed are undertaken as required.
He mentioned that tourists visiting waterfalls in forest areas benefit from a range of amenities. Safety personnel from the Forest Department are stationed at all waterfalls to ensure visitor safety. Additionally, rescue equipment such as life vests, jackets, and ropes are provided. First aid kits are available at key locations for emergencies. Temporary changing rooms and other convenience amenities are also offered. Clear signage indicating dos and don’ts is placed to guide visitors.
The list of waterfalls and springs in Goa includes several locations. In the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, there is Pali, Hivrem, Charavne, Golauli, Gunguldem, Chidambaram, Naneli, Ukaichee Khadee in Kumthal, Kumthal itself, Madiyani in Gululem, Khadee in Gululem, and Satrem.
In the Vainguinim area, the notable sites are Jalavani, Barazan, Ladkyacho Vazar, Tonnier, Savarde, Tulaskond, Pendral, Bhallan in Assodem, Surunguli, and Bandhavoilo Vazar. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park in Mollem features Maida in Collem, Dudhsagar, Tambdi Surla, Talde, and Bhoma.
Highway areas of interest include the Highway Mahavir Gate, Highway Bamangudo, the Highway near Dudhsagar Temple, and the Highway Viewpoint. In the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, one can visit Pikle Wadi, Mainapi, Savri, Bhati, and Pali. The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary includes Kuske, Mashitole, and Balfond.
