Panaji, July 17 – The Goa legislative assembly was embroiled in a heated debate over the increasing number of drowning deaths on the state’s beaches, with allegations of a scam related to the lifeguard contractor Drishti Marine.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao Raises Concerns
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao tabled a starred question, claiming that despite the expenditure of several crores, drowning deaths on Goa’s beaches have continued, indicating the failure of the lifeguard contractor. Alemao demanded an inquiry by a retired high court judge into Drishti’s contract and its role in beach safety management.
“The Tourism Department paid Rs 226.83 crores to the lifeguard contractor over the last five years, yet 56 people have drowned in the past two years. Moreover, the tender lapsed in June 2024 but the department has extended its service without inviting a new tender,” Alemao alleged.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte Defends Drishti’s Contract
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte defended Drishti, stating that they have been performing commendably. He explained that many drowning incidents involve bodies washed ashore or occur outside lifeguard duty hours, which are before 7 am or after 7 pm.
“There is a difference between drowning and retrieving bodies. Many incidents involve people irresponsibly taking selfies despite warnings. Body retrieval and drowning are not the same,” Khaunte replied.
Alemao remained unsatisfied, pointing to the 56 deaths in the last two years. Khaunte presented statistics showing six drowning deaths in 2020, nine in 2021, six in 2022, six in 2023, and two in 2024.
“How many of these deaths occurred in the absence of lifeguards? There have been seven deaths at Arambol, Miramar, Morjim, Sinquerim, Calangute, and Vagator. The Tourism Department reports nil while the Home Department reports seven. This discrepancy indicates a failure and lack of coordination within the government,” Alemao countered.
He further alleged a major scam and demanded an inquiry by a retired high court judge, receiving support from other opposition legislators.
Khaunte responded that these incidents might have occurred when lifeguards were off duty and announced that a new tender for lifeguarding services on the beaches would be issued within the next three months.
“We are working on ensuring that we have the best lifeguarding system in place,” the minister said, dismissing allegations of illegality and irregularities in the beach safety and lifeguarding project.
Tags: Goa, Beach Safety, Drowning Deaths, Drishti Marine, Yuri Alemao, Rohan Khaunte
Categories: Goa News, Political News