Panaji: In a major crackdown on public nuisance and beach littering, the Goa government has announced strict penalties ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000 for tourists and locals found drinking in public or littering, especially at popular tourist spots. The action comes under provisions of the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 2001 and the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte expressed concern over rising injuries caused by glass and plastic waste, especially on beaches. “Tourism in Goa needs discipline. We are introducing a bottle deposit system and will not tolerate nuisance created by public drinking,” he said.
The issue came to the forefront after MLA Michael Lobo highlighted a recent incident in which a tourist suffered injuries from broken glass on the beach. Lobo has demanded an immediate ban on glass bottles and plastic bags on beaches to prevent such incidents in the future.
Authorities have confirmed that drinking in public places and breaking glass bottles at tourist destinations will be treated as serious offenses. Enforcement will be stepped up with the help of tourism and police departments.
With these new measures, the state hopes to ensure a safer, cleaner, and more responsible tourism environment.
