PANAJI: Goa government today clarified that the paragliding operations in Goa have been suspended and not banned and the same would be resumed after operators comply with the guidelines.
Following the death of two, including a female Maharashtra tourist, the tourism department had ordered a suspension of all sorts of paragliding activities throughout Goa until further orders.
"There is misinformation spread that paragliding operations are banned...it is not banned but a suspension till we review all the permissions. As of now, paragliding is suspended, 'bhivpachi garaz na'," Min Rohan Khaunte said.
The minister acknowledged that paragliding, as an extreme sport, carries inherent risks, even with strict regulations in place. "Paragliding is an extreme sport, where there is extreme sport no matter the number of regulations put in place, there are chances that such incidents could occur. But if people do not comply with regulations we will not allow the sports," he added.
Khaunte emphasized that operators wishing to offer paragliding or similar activities must present the required permissions for inspection. "Whoever is offering paragliding or such activities should come and show us their requisite permission and if everything is fine then we will regulate and grant permission," he stated.
The minister also expressed condolences to the families affected by the recent tragedy, stressing that safety would remain the top priority. "Illegal activities that cause loss of life, as we sympathize with families, life lost is lost and we will not compromise. We are clear we want it to be safe and secure. We will put our foot down where needed in the interest of Goa and tourism for Goa," Khaunte said.
The clarification comes after MLA Michael Lobo voiced his opposition to an outright ban on paragliding in Goa, calling for more stringent safety regulations instead.
