Digital Goa, May 23- In a move to prevent monsoon-related drowning incidents, South Goa District Magistrate Egna Cleetus, IAS, has issued a 60-day ban on swimming, bathing, or entering natural water bodies such as waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, and lakes across South Goa District, effective from May 23, 2025. The order, issued under Section 163 of the BNSS, follows a recommendation from the Superintendent of Police (South) citing recurring fatal incidents in areas like Sanguem, Mormugao, and Dharbandora. Despite warning signage, people continue to access these sites unsafely, facing risks from unpredictable currents, hidden depths, and slippery terrain, the order points out. Police Inspectors and Mamlatdars have been directed to strictly enforce the ban. Violators will face action under Section 223 of the BNS, the order warns. The Deputy Collector and SDM, Quepem, has been authorized to initiate FIRs and prosecute offenders as per the order issued today.
