Mapusa/Panaji: Tourism and IT Minister Rohan Khaunte on Sunday said that paragliding operations in Goa have been temporarily suspended, not banned.
He said that the suspension is in place to allow operators to comply with regulations and verify their documents with the department. This decision will remain effective until the tourism department reviews all permissions.
“If illegal activities are carried out, strict action will be taken. However, there is no ban on paragliding activity in the state. Paragliding is suspended, ‘bhivpachi garaz na’ (there’s no need to worry),” said Khaunte after the flag-hoisting ceremony at Morod in Mapusa.
Speaking about the inherent risks of extreme sports like paragliding, he said, “No matter the number of regulations in place, there are still chances of incidents occurring. If operators do not comply with the regulations, we will not allow the activity.”
Referring to a recent tragedy in which a Maharashtra-based tourist and a pilot lost their lives due to technical issues, Khaunte said, “We sympathise with the family, as a life has been lost. Safety and security are our priorities, and we will not compromise on this. We are clear about keeping Goa’s tourism sector safe.”
The tourism director has issued an order mandating a review of all paragliding activities to ensure operators are meeting safety standards. Police personnel across the state have been instructed to enforce the suspension. Violations will attract a fine of Rs 50,000 and penal action.
The tourism department will reassess all registrations issued under the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1982, related to paragliding, to ensure strict compliance with safety norms.
