PANAJI
Following a series of drowning incidents across the State, the North Goa Collectorate’s Disaster Management office has issued a public safety advisory, urging residents and tourists to avoid water bodies during heavy rainfall, flooding and periods of high water levels.
The advisory warned people against swimming, bathing or entering rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, beaches, waterfalls and other water bodies during unsafe conditions. It also cautioned against crossing flooded roads, bridges, causeways, culverts and submerged pathways, as even shallow flowing water can become dangerous during the monsoon.
Citizens have been asked to follow warning signs, barricades, red flags and instructions issued by the police, disaster management authorities and local administration.
Parents and guardians have been advised not to leave children unattended near water bodies. Activities such as boating, rafting, fishing, swimming and adventure sports should be avoided unless officially permitted and proper safety measures are in place.
Tourists have been urged to visit only notified beaches and authorised water sports facilities and follow instructions from lifeguards and operators. The advisory also stressed the use of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-approved life jackets during boat travel and authorised water activities.
People have also been warned against consuming alcohol near water bodies and advised to avoid riverbanks, reservoirs, waterfalls and coastal areas during heavy rain or weather warnings. Residents have been urged to monitor official alerts through the SACHET, Mausam, Meghdoot and Damini apps and avoid flood-prone areas.
