VALPOI
With the arrival of the monsoon, the waterfalls flowing through the lush green hills of Sattari taluka have come alive once again. Continuous rainfall over the past four days has added to their beauty, drawing nature lovers, photographers, youngsters and families in large numbers.
The scenic waterfalls of Sattari are witnessing a rise in tourist footfall, turning the region into one of Goa’s most popular monsoon destinations. Until recently, visitors faced several difficulties due to the lack of basic facilities such as proper access paths, toilets, changing rooms for women, safety railings and waste management systems. Women, in particular, often found it difficult to visit these locations.
For the first time since Goa’s Liberation, a major effort has been made to improve these natural tourist spots under the leadership of local MLA and Goa Forest Development Corporation Chairperson Dr Deviya Rane. The initiative has focused on providing essential facilities while protecting the natural beauty of the waterfalls.
The Goa Forest Development Corporation, in coordination with the Forest Department, has developed basic infrastructure at the waterfall sites, making them safer, cleaner and more convenient for visitors.
Facilities at major waterfalls
Special facilities have been introduced at the Charavane, Pali and Naneli waterfalls in Sattari. These include mobile toilets, separate changing rooms for women, washrooms, waste bins, resting areas and regular cleaning of the surrounding areas.
The lack of changing facilities earlier discouraged many women and families from visiting these spots. With the new facilities in place, women visitors have welcomed the improvements, saying they can now enjoy the waterfalls more comfortably with their families.
Safer access for visitors
Waterfalls in hilly areas often involve slippery rocks, steep slopes and narrow paths, increasing the risk of accidents. To address this, the Forest Department has improved access routes by creating safer walking trails and installing railings at risky points.
The pathways are being maintained regularly during the monsoon to reduce the chances of slips and falls, making the locations safer for children, senior citizens and families.
Plastic bottles, food wrappers, carry bags and liquor bottles had earlier become a major concern around the waterfalls, causing pollution and affecting the local environment.
This year, authorities have stepped up cleanliness efforts. Forest Department teams are conducting regular cleaning drives and removing waste from the sites. Awareness campaigns are also being carried out to encourage visitors to avoid littering and reduce plastic use.
Restrictions have been placed on carrying plastic bottles and bags into the waterfall areas to help protect these eco-sensitive locations.
Safety boards have been installed at vulnerable points, advising visitors not to enter deep water, avoid consuming alcohol near water bodies, remain cautious during heavy rainfall and keep a close watch on children.
The Forest Department and other agencies have also increased monitoring, especially during weekends and public holidays, to ensure visitor safety. The improved facilities, clean surroundings and natural beauty of Sattari’s waterfalls have gained attention through social media. The Goa Forest Development Corporation’s promotion of these destinations has helped attract tourists from neighbouring states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka, along with visitors from other parts of India.
The increase in tourist arrivals is creating opportunities for local youth, food vendors, transport operators, homestay owners and sellers of local products.
Boost to rural economy
The growth of monsoon tourism is expected to support Sattari’s rural economy by creating opportunities in local cuisine, handicrafts, homestays, guided nature tours and other tourism-related activities.
Residents and tourism stakeholders believe that promoting eco-friendly tourism while protecting the environment can help establish Sattari as a leading destination for eco-tourism and monsoon tourism in Goa.
Locals have also urged visitors to maintain cleanliness, avoid plastic waste, follow Forest Department guidelines and help protect the region’s natural heritage for future generations.
