Goa Says No To ‘Nuisance’ For Tourists: Stricter Law Against Unlicensed Water Sports, Littering

Last Updated:July 29, 2025, 17:40 IST

Known as the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) (Amendment) Act, 2025, the law expands definition of “nuisance” and increases penalties for disruptive activities

The amendment comes as tourism in Goa has rapidly expanded. (PTI File)

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.

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