In a significant move to enhance the quality of tourism and protect public spaces, the Goa Legislative Assembly passed the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Amendment Bill, 2025 on August 1. The amended legislation aims to clamp down on illegal activities, touting, and nuisance behavior at major tourist hotspots across the state.
Wider Scope of Offenses Defined as ‘Nuisance’
The revised law expands the definition of nuisance to include a variety of disruptive and unlawful activities such as:
- Aggressive sales tactics and touting
- Unauthorized hawking and begging
- Cooking in open public areas
- Unauthorized vehicle entry on beaches
- Littering and floating objects that endanger the environment
- Drinking alcohol or breaking glass bottles in restricted zones
- Selling water sports tickets or tourism packages without official permission
- Promoting out-of-state tourism services without clearance
Harsher Penalties for Offenders
To deter violators, the bill introduces stricter penalties:
- Minimum fine: ₹5,000
- Maximum fine: ₹1,00,000
- Legal action: Offenders can be prosecuted under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, for non-compliance with public servant orders.
Under Section 10A, fines will now be reviewed every two years, with a potential revision of up to 10%, based on recommendations from the designated authority.
Need for the Amendment
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, who tabled the bill, highlighted the need for stronger laws in response to rising tourist numbers and increasing incidents of misconduct. The amendment seeks to ensure a safer and cleaner environment, improving the overall tourist experience while addressing environmental and public safety concerns.
Promoting Responsible Tourism in Goa
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. This legal framework is part of a broader strategy to promote regenerative tourism that benefits local communities while preserving Goa’s cultural and natural heritage.
With the new measures in place, Goa aims to remain a secure, hospitable, and eco-conscious destination for both domestic and international travelers.
A passionate explorer and storyteller at heart, the author of TrendyTravelNews.com brings you the latest travel trends, destination guides, and insider tips from around the globe. From hidden gems to headline destinations, they’re on a mission to make your travel experiences smarter, richer, and more memorable.
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