With the onset of the monsoon in Goa, Drishti Marine has appealed to residents and tourists to stay out of the sea and exercise caution while visiting beaches and other waterfront locations across the state.
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.
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.
“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,” said Navin Awasthi, CEO of Drishti Marine.
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 being monitored continuously by trained Drishti Marine teams, who remain on alert to respond to emergencies across the coastline and 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.
Precautions to be taken during the monsoons as advised by Drishti Marine:
• It is not advisable to swim or to engage in any water sport activity at the beach during the monsoon months from June to October because even though the sea may seem calm, a sudden large wave can sneak up on you and pull you into deep waters without warnings.
• Those visiting the beach should keep a minimum of 10 meters distance from the waterline and listen to the instructions given by the lifesavers.
• Keep a very close eye on children while on the beach and do not allow children to venture into the waters unattended, no matter how shallow it may be.
• Avoid rocky areas near the sea as they can get slippery due to the rains
• Refrain from taking selfies on rocky areas along the coast
• Stay alert, as lifesavers while patrolling, make announcements to alarm and educate people via the Public Address System put up on the jeeps.
• It is not suitable to head out to the beach or venture into the water during lightning and thunder because lightning can pose a danger.
• Do not get onto the rocks during low tide because the rocks get a lot more slippery and mossy during the monsoon season.
• If under the influence of alcohol, make sure you do not venture into the water.
• Always read and obey the safety signs found at the main entrance of the beach.
