VALPOI
The Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), in collaboration with the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary management, has launched a major initiative to upgrade infrastructure at Sattari’s popular waterfalls to promote safe and sustainable monsoon tourism.
As part of a three-year eco-tourism development programme, modern visitor amenities at Pali, Charavne and Naneli waterfalls are in the final stages of completion. The waterfalls attract thousands of visitors from Goa and neighbouring states during the monsoon, but rising footfall has also raised concerns over accidents, traffic congestion, littering and safety violations.
The project, being implemented under the guidance of GFDC Chairperson and Poriem MLA Dr Deviya Rane, aims to develop the sites into model eco-tourism destinations while preserving their ecological value.
Infrastructure works include the construction of safe trekking trails, improvement of approach roads where required, and the creation of public toilets, changing rooms, resting areas and sanitation facilities. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Range Forest Officer Girish Bailurkar said several new facilities have been added this year and the remaining works are expected to be completed within the next four days. Authorities have placed special emphasis on visitor safety, noting that the waterfalls are located in steep and slippery terrain.
The sanctuary management has also announced a complete ban on alcohol and the carrying of liquor bottles into the sanctuary. Forest officials will conduct regular patrols, and strict action will be taken against those found consuming alcohol, littering with plastic or glass bottles, entering restricted areas or violating sanctuary regulations.
Officials have appealed to tourists to enjoy the waterfalls responsibly by avoiding alcohol, excessive noise and littering, stressing that protecting nature is a collective responsibility.
Dr Rane said Goa’s natural heritage offers immense potential for eco-tourism and that similar tourism infrastructure is being developed at waterfalls in Sanguem, Canacona and other parts of the State. She credited Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane for supporting the development of quality facilities at the Sattari waterfalls.
Emphasising the role of local communities, Dr Rane said the GFDC remains committed to transforming Sattari into a model eco-tourism destination based on the principles of safety, cleanliness and environmental conservation.
