The North Goa district administration on Thursday sealed multiple amusement rides operating at the Dev Bodgeshwar jatra in Mapusa after the operators allegedly failed to obtain mandatory safety clearances. The action, taken in the interest of public safety, follows strict instructions issued by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), which had directed officials to ensure complete compliance with safety norms during the nine-day religious festival that concludes on January 9.
The Dev Bodgeshwar jatra is among Goa’s most prominent religious gatherings, drawing thousands of devotees from across the state and neighbouring regions. Given the scale of attendance and the presence of temporary structures and mechanical rides, the SDMA had issued explicit guidelines mandating fire, electrical, and structural safety inspections prior to operations.
Inspection Conducted Following SDMA Directions
Acting on SDMA instructions, the North Goa additional collector carried out an on-site inspection of the amusement rides, including the giant wheel, set up at the festival grounds in Mapusa. Officials found that the operator had allegedly failed to secure mandatory no-objection certificates (NOCs) from relevant departments, including the directorate of fire and emergency services.
Authorities clarified that under existing disaster management and public safety regulations, amusement rides cannot operate without clearance from fire safety, electrical safety, and structural engineering departments. These approvals are essential to assess risks related to mechanical failure, fire hazards, electrical faults, and crowd movement.
Opportunity Given, Compliance Not Met
According to officials, the Bardez mamlatdar had granted the operator adequate time to obtain the necessary permissions and comply with prescribed safety requirements. Despite being given this opportunity, the operator reportedly failed to submit the required NOCs within the stipulated time frame.
In view of continued non-compliance, the SDMA directed that all amusement rides operating without valid clearances be immediately shut down, sealed, and removed from the premises. The order also instructed local authorities to hold organisers accountable for any violations that could endanger public safety.
Focus on Crowd Safety During Major Festivals
Officials emphasised that the decision was preventive rather than punitive, aimed at avoiding potential accidents at a venue that witnesses heavy footfall daily. With families, children, and elderly devotees attending the jatra, authorities stated that even minor lapses in safety protocols could lead to serious consequences.
The SDMA has also instructed officials to closely monitor crowd management arrangements, emergency exits, and fire response readiness throughout the festival period. Organisers have been warned that any deviation from safety norms could invite strict action under disaster management laws.
Administration Reiterates Zero Tolerance for Safety Lapses
District officials reiterated that while religious and cultural festivals are an integral part of Goa’s social fabric, public safety remains paramount. They stressed that all event organisers and operators must strictly adhere to safety regulations, irrespective of the scale or popularity of the event.
The sealing of amusement rides at the Dev Bodgeshwar jatra sends a clear message that regulatory compliance cannot be compromised. Authorities have urged operators to obtain all mandatory clearances well in advance to avoid disruption and ensure a safe environment for devotees.
Conclusion: Safety as a Non-Negotiable Priority
The North Goa administration’s action reflects a firm commitment to safeguarding lives during large public gatherings. By enforcing SDMA guidelines and sealing non-compliant amusement rides, authorities have reinforced the principle that public safety outweighs commercial or operational considerations.
As the Dev Bodgeshwar jatra continues until January 9, officials remain on alert to ensure that all safety protocols are followed, reaffirming that festivals must be celebrated responsibly and without risk to human life.
