Beaches and water sport activities are a major attraction of Goa, however, with the impending arrival of the southwest monsoons, they have been shut down for visitors. Light showers have been witnessed over the past few days, along the coastal stretch, which signifies that pre-monsoon has already hit the state. This decision has been implemented from Saturday, i.e., 5 June onwards.
On the same day, the Goa government also declared that the ongoing curfew restrictions across the state will be extended till 7 AM of 14 June. However, during this period, shops dealing in essential items will be allowed to operate from 7 AM to 3 PM every day.
Non-safe beaches tagged with red flags
As per an advisory issued by a private lifeguard agency, Drishti Marine, state residents have been asked not to visit rocky areas and cliffs located near the sea as they become quite slippery and fatal after rain. Therefore, rocky areas around the forts in Anjuna, Vagator and Tiracol have been declared out of bounds.
Moreover, wading into the saltwater bodies has been banned and red flags have been put up on the beaches that have been identified as not safe for swimming. A team of lifesavers has been posted along the coast to monitor the weather conditions and to carry out rescue operations even in rough weather.
Seas are rougher in the wake of Tauktae
The seas are rougher owing to the effect of Cyclone Tauktae, hence, more vigilance is required. The Operations Head of Drishti Marine was quoted in reports, saying, “After the recent Cyclone Tauktae, the sea profile near the beaches has changed resulting in more areas where rip currents are observed. These rip currents can pull a person inside the sea making it difficult to swim.”
-With inputs from IANS
