With heavy rains lashing Goa, the inflow of water into the Anjunem Dam reservoir has started increasing, and nature has turned lush green.
In the coming days, the Chorla Ghat area between Goa and Belagavi and the Anjunem Dam reservoir will become a major attraction for tourists.
However, the iron protective railings installed at this scenic spot for the safety of tourists have been in a dilapidated condition for the past three months, and repairs have still not been carried out. As a result, there is a fear that a major accident could occur here during the monsoon.
The Chorla Ghat route connecting Goa and Belagavi is considered extremely important not only for transport but also from a tourism perspective.
Every year, thousands of tourists visit this area during the monsoon to witness waterfalls, mist-covered valleys, verdant hills, and the vast reservoir of Anjunem Dam.
To ensure that tourists can enjoy this natural beauty safely, the forest department had erected iron protective railings in the ghat area. From this spot, tourists could conveniently view the Anjunem Dam reservoir, take photographs, and enjoy nature.
However, since the iron railings broke about three months ago, no repairs have been carried out. Due to the broken railings, tourists and motorists are standing right at the edge of a deep gorge, posing a serious threat to life.
During the monsoon, dense fog, slippery roads, and reduced visibility due to rain further increase the risk of accidents.
There is a deep valley at this spot, and in the absence of protective railings, a loss of balance could lead to a serious accident. Many tourists stand at the roadside, especially to take photographs or to get a panoramic view of the dam. Locals say that the lack of safety measures in such a situation is a matter of grave concern.
Moreover, since the Chorla Ghat area falls under forest land, wild animals such as gaur, wild boar, and leopards are frequently seen here. If a wild animal suddenly appears, motorists or tourists could panic and move toward the gorge. Hence, citizens point out that the importance of protective railings is even greater.
For the past three months, local residents as well as regular motorists have been repeatedly demanding repairs from the concerned department. However, since no concrete action has been taken so far, there is resentment among the public.
There is a growing demand that before the number of tourists increases rapidly during the monsoon, the forest department should erect new and sturdy iron protective railings at this spot, install necessary warning signboards, secure dangerous areas with proper fencing, and carry out regular maintenance.
