Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Office of the North Goa Collector, through the Deputy Collector (Disaster Management), has issued a public advisory urging citizens and tourists to take precautions to prevent drowning incidents during the ongoing monsoon.
The advisory asks people not to swim, bathe or venture into rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, beaches, waterfalls or any other water bodies during heavy rainfall, flooding or when water levels are high. It also warns against attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges, causeways, culverts or submerged pathways, noting that even shallow flowing water can be dangerous.
Citizens have been directed to strictly follow warning signs, barricades, red flags and instructions issued by government authorities, police and disaster management officials. Parents and guardians have been advised not to leave children unattended near water bodies.
The administration has also urged the public to avoid recreational activities such as boating, rafting, fishing, swimming and adventure sports unless specifically permitted and proper safety arrangements are in place.
Tourists have been advised to visit only notified beaches and authorised water sports facilities, strictly follow lifeguards’ instructions and wear Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-approved life jackets while travelling in boats or participating in authorised water-based activities.
The advisory further cautions against consuming alcohol or intoxicating substances before or during activities near water bodies and advises people to avoid riverbanks, reservoirs, waterfalls and coastal areas during periods of heavy rainfall or when weather warnings are in force.
Citizens have also been urged to monitor official weather forecasts through the Sachet, Mausam, Meghdoot and Damini mobile applications and avoid unnecessary travel to flood-prone or waterlogged areas.
In case of emergencies or if unsafe conditions are observed, the public has been asked to dial 112 and cooperate with government authorities during evacuation, rescue and emergency response operations.
The administration has appealed to the public to remain vigilant throughout the monsoon with the message: “Stay Alert, Stay Safe, Prevent Drowning.”
