Latest news with #GoaTouristPlaces(ProtectionandMaintenance
Time of India
7 days ago
- Time of India
Goa tightens tourism law: More stringent fines introduced for public "nuisance". Check details
Goa has amended its Tourist Places Act, increasing penalties for nuisances like touting and public drinking to a maximum of ₹1,00,000. Tourism Minister Khaunte stated the move aims to curb unauthorized activities and maintain Goa's reputation as a world-class destination. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Government of Goa has taken a significant step towards ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more visitor-friendly tourism environment by passing an essential amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, on Thursday in the state House has approved the amendment to the bill. The bill shall be called the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, amendment seeks to expand the definition of " nuisance " at tourist sites and introduces more stringent penalties for violations, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism Tourism Minister Khaunte has stated in the assembly, while replying to a starred question during question hour, that the government will soon table a bill in the new provisions outline a wider ambit of activities that now qualify as public nuisance at tourist locations . These include pestering tourists to purchase goods or services, consumption of alcohol in unauthorised areas, littering, open-air cooking, unauthorised hawking, ticket touting, and the illegal operation of water sports and boating activities. Such activities have not only disrupted public order but have also led to a decline in the overall experience for both tourists and local for Tourism, Rohan A Khaunte, stated that the rapid expansion of tourism has resulted in the rise of unauthorised practices and violations of public decorum at many destinations. He emphasised that the amendment provides a much-needed legal mechanism to curb these issues and uphold the sanctity of Goa's tourist places."This legislation is a step in the right direction to address growing concerns and to maintain Goa's reputation as a responsible and world-class tourism destination," the Minister the rapid expansion of tourism activities has also led to an increase in nuisance at tourist places, affecting the experience of visitors and locals in the State, disturbing public order, and causing environmental degradation. Instances of unauthorised activities, disturbances, and violations of public decorum have been on the rise, necessitating a stronger legal framework to address these amendment is aimed at preserving the integrity of Goa's tourist places, promoting responsible and regenerative tourism, and creating a hospitable environment while protecting the interests of local communities and the revised act, offences will attract a minimum penalty of Rs 5,000, which may extend up to Rs 1,00,000. This is a significant increase from the earlier upper limit of Rs 50,000. In addition, violators may also be prosecuted under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita , depending on the severity of the amendment also introduces a provision for periodic review of penalties. The Department of Tourism will be empowered to re-evaluate and revise the quantum of fines every two years, in consultation with relevant authorities. The revised penalty may be increased by up to 10% of the existing fine amount, ensuring that the framework remains dynamic and effective over legislative update highlights the Government's ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experience, preserve public spaces, and foster a tourism ecosystem that respects both cultural values and environmental sustainability.
News18
29-07-2025
- News18
Goa Says No To ‘Nuisance' For Tourists: Stricter Law Against Unlicensed Water Sports, Littering
Last Updated: Known as the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, 2025, the law expands definition of 'nuisance' and increases penalties for disruptive activities In a decisive move to boost tourism standards, the Government of Goa will soon pass a key amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001. Known as the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, 2025, the new law expands the definition of 'nuisance" and increases penalties for disruptive activities at tourist sites. The amendment comes as tourism in Goa has rapidly expanded, leading to a rise in unauthorised practices that affect both visitors and local communities. Under the new law, behaviours that cause public disturbance—such as pestering tourists to buy goods, consuming alcohol in unauthorised areas, littering, cooking in open spaces, unauthorised hawking, and illegal ticket touting—are now clearly defined as nuisances. Additional violations include the unauthorised operation of water sports and boating activities. Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte explained that the growing number of tourists has unfortunately been accompanied by a rise in activities that undermine the quality of the visitor experience and disrupt public order. 'This legislation is a step in the right direction to address these issues and maintain Goa's reputation as a responsible and world-class tourism destination," he said. The revised act imposes much tougher fines on those who violate its terms. While offenders were previously fined up to Rs 50,000, under the new law, penalties can now range from a minimum of Rs 5,000 to as much as Rs 1,00,000. Depending on the severity of the offense, violators may also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. In addition to the increased fines, the amendment will introduce a provision for periodic review. The Department of Tourism will have the power to re-evaluate and adjust the fine amounts every two years, with possible increases up to 10% of the existing fines. This measure is intended to ensure that the law remains effective as tourism patterns and challenges evolve. Officials say the move is designed not only to preserve the aesthetic and cultural appeal of Goa's tourist areas but also to promote responsible, sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and local residents. The government's initiative aims to create an environment where public spaces are respected and maintained for the enjoyment of everyone. This major legislative update is part of ongoing efforts by the Goa government to enhance visitor experiences, safeguard public order, and support the state's commitment to sustainable tourism. With better guidelines and stronger penalties now in place, Goa continues its journey towards establishing a tourism ecosystem that is both welcoming and well-regulated. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
