MAPUSA
Goa's long coastline and pristine beaches continue to attract millions of domestic and international tourists every year. But alongside the picturesque landscape lies a recurring tragedy that lifeguards say is largely preventable.
Even as drowning deaths continue to be reported from beaches across the State, the men and women tasked with safeguarding Goa's shoreline say their biggest challenge is not the rough sea, but convincing tourists to heed repeated warnings.
Reckless behaviour biggest challenge
From ignoring red flags and public announcements to entering the sea under the influence of alcohol and risking their lives for social media content, lifeguards say reckless behaviour remains the single biggest factor behind many rescue operations.
"We do our best to convince tourists not to enter the sea whenever the waters are rough or there is a possibility of strong currents. But many simply ignore our appeals," said Amit Mahale, sector leader with Drishti Marine Lifesavers, who supervises the Candolim-Calangute-Baga stretch.
"Many of the tourists who venture into the water are intoxicated. They don't realise how quickly conditions in the sea can change," he added.
Mahale said lifeguards frequently encounter resistance while enforcing safety measures.
"Some tourists become argumentative and even aggressive. They tell us they have spent money to come to Goa only to enjoy the sea, so they don't want to be stopped. They don't understand that we are only trying to save their lives," he said.
According to lifeguards, many visitors underestimate the dangers posed by rip currents, strong waves and sudden changes in sea conditions, particularly during the monsoon when the sea can become extremely unpredictable.
"Most tourists have little understanding of the risks involved. The moment they see the sea, they get excited and want to jump in. If they knew how dangerous the currents can be, many would think twice before entering the water," Mahale said.
Social media fuelling risky behaviour
The rise of social media has added another dimension to the problem.
Lifeguards stationed along several beaches say tourists increasingly ignore safety barriers and warnings in an attempt to capture dramatic photographs and videos.
"Many climb onto rocks close to the sea to shoot reels or click selfies. When the waves begin crashing against the rocks, we immediately ask them to move away. But some continue taking risks because they want the perfect picture," said a lifeguard posted at Vagator beach.
Such behaviour often forces lifeguards to divert their attention from monitoring swimmers to repeatedly warning visitors who stray into hazardous areas.
While Drishti Marine Lifesavers have rescued hundreds of beachgoers over the years through constant surveillance, rapid response and preventive patrols, lifeguards believe that enforcement alone cannot prevent tragedies.
Mahale feels greater public awareness is essential.
"The government should consider issuing safety guidelines to tourists before they visit the beaches. Information about sea safety could be displayed at hotels, airports, railway stations and popular tourist locations so that visitors are aware of the risks even before they step onto the beach," he said.
Spreading awareness essential
He also believes stakeholders in the tourism industry have an important role to play. "Restaurant owners, shack operators and hotel staff can help by reminding tourists about the dangers of entering the sea during rough conditions. If everyone spreads the same message, tourists may be more likely to listen," Mahale added.
For Goa's lifeguards, every whistle blown, every warning issued and every argument with an uncooperative tourist is driven by one objective – to prevent another avoidable death.
As drowning incidents continue to cast a shadow over Goa's image as a safe beach destination, lifeguards insist that public cooperation, along with awareness and responsible behaviour, remains the strongest lifesaving tool available.
