PANAJI
Drishti Marine has appealed to residents and tourists to stay away from the sea and exercise caution while visiting beaches and other waterfront locations across the State.
“With rough seas and unpredictable weather conditions now prevailing, swimming in the sea, coastal water sports activities and fishing operations are prohibited during the monsoon season. Red flags have been placed along beach stretches across the state to indicate that entering the water is unsafe,” reads a statement issued by the agency on Saturday.
The state government-appointed lifesaving agency has deployed more than 450 trained lifesavers and beach marshals across 54 beaches in Goa, including 30 beaches in South Goa and 24 beaches in North Goa. Lifesavers are also stationed at Mayem Lake in Bicholim, Dudhsagar Waterfall, Savri Waterfall in Sanguem and Mhovacho Guno in Sattari.
"The sea can appear calm one moment and become dangerous the next during the monsoon. Strong currents, tall waves and changing weather conditions make even shallow waters unsafe. We urge everyone to respect the red flags and avoid entering the sea altogether. Our lifesavers are on duty across Goa and are continuously monitoring conditions, but the safest choice is to stay out of the water and follow all advisories issued at the beaches," Drishti Marine CEO Navin Awasthi said.
Drishti Marine has advised beachgoers to remain particularly cautious around rocky stretches, cliffs and elevated coastal areas, which often become slippery during the rains and can pose a serious risk of falls and injuries.
The agency has also warned against venturing into the water, even along the shoreline, as strong currents and powerful waves can quickly pull individuals into deeper areas.
Sea and weather conditions are continuously monitored by trained Drishti Marine teams, who remain on alert to respond to emergencies along the coastline and at designated inland locations.
Drishti Marine has urged members of the public to cooperate with lifesavers and beach marshals on duty, pay attention to warning flags and signage, and adhere to all safety instructions issued during the monsoon period.
