Goa government set to pass stricter law to curb ‘nuisance’ at tourists hotspots

Mumbai: With an aim to curb ‘public nuisance’ at tourists places and provide for more hospitable and sustainable experience to its visitors, the Goa government is set to introduce a key amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, significantly widening the scope of punishable offences at tourist destinations across the state.

The amendments expands the legal definition of “nuisance” and significantly increases penalties for activities deemed disruptive or damaging to public order. The bill is expected to be introduced in the upcoming session of the Goa Legislative Assembly.

Sources said that the decision comes in response to the rapid growth in tourist numbers, which has been accompanied by a surge in activities that authorities say threaten public order and the overall visitor experience.


Goa Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte asserted 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,” Khaute said.

Under the amended law, a range of actions—such as pestering tourists to purchase goods, drinking alcohol in unauthorized areas, littering, breaking glass bottles, cooking in open spaces, illegal hawking, and ticket touting—will now be clearly defined as nuisances. Unauthorized operation of water sports and boating activities will also fall under the purview of the updated legislation

The amendment also includes a provision for biennial reviews, allowing the Department of Tourism to revise fine amounts every two years by up to 10%.

The revised bill imposes much tougher fines against the offenders. While offenders were previously fined up to ₹50,000, under the new law, penalties can now range from a minimum of ₹5,000 to as much as ₹1,00,000. Depending on the severity of the offense, violators may also face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

The government’s initiative aims to create an environment where public spaces are better managed to allow the tourists a holistic experience. “...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,” said an official.