At the onset of the offseason, a stern warning prohibiting selfies has been prominently displayed at 24 tourist hotspots in Goa. This drastic measure, accompanied by red flags, is a response to recent tourist fatalities, one of which was captured in a viral video on June 17.

The video depicted three individuals from Tamil Nadu sitting on rocks below Fort Aguada, awaiting the sunrise. Suddenly, a powerful wave, known as “the most greedy of all waves” by lifeguards, crashed on the rocks, pulling one of the boys through a crevice. The tragic incidents prompted the urgent need for red alerts, according to Ravi Shanker, CEO of Drishti Marine, the state-appointed lifeguard agency overseeing 40 prominent beaches in Goa. He emphasized the growing disregard for safety regulations and attributed it to a lack of understanding of water dynamics and awareness of responsible beach behavior.

Following the viral video, the state government closely monitored several deaths at the start of the offseason, with four accidental fatalities reported during the annual water ban period from May 31 to September 30. Among these incidents, a group of 14 individuals from Maharashtra drowned in Calangute after venturing into heavy currents in a no-swim zone, while others in their group photographed the risky activity. Another fatality involved a “selfie victim” who fell from the Vagator tower and was swept away by the current on May 23.

To address the escalating risks, new warning flags were installed at prominent tourist spots, including Baga River, Dona Paula Jetty, Sinquerim Fort, Anjuna, Vagator, and others. However, locals reported facing resistance from tourists who disregarded warnings about the dangers at these locations. Incidents of lifeguards being physically assaulted when advising large groups to avoid hazardous areas for selfies were also reported.

Over the past five years, there have been 1,653 rescues, with 1,285 involving Indian nationals and 368 involving foreigners. This year alone, 73 Indian nationals have been rescued despite ample warnings. Lifeguards emphasized the common threat posed by the influence of alcohol and the tendency for non-swimmers to imitate foreigners or engage in risky behavior to impress others.

Ashwin Ghag, a seasoned lifeguard, highlighted the need for constant vigilance, especially regarding individuals attempting risky behavior influenced by alcohol or the desire to impress. Jivba Dalvi, a senior police inspector, stressed the importance of caution during photography near water, cliffs, or slippery rocks due to the strong currents. The police are now advocating for a 24-hour lifeguard service, as tourists have been observed entering the waters even during early hours.