Sattari, Goa – July 3, 2025: Authorities have announced the temporary closure of public access to Amthane Dam for a period of 45 days, starting July 5, citing safety concerns and essential maintenance work during the monsoon season.
Located in the scenic Sattari taluka, Amthane Dam is a key water source for nearby regions and a popular spot for nature lovers and local visitors. However, with rising water levels and ongoing structural inspections, the Water Resources Department has decided to restrict public entry until mid-August.
Officials have emphasized that the closure is preventive and aims to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, especially during the peak of the monsoon when the area becomes more vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and slippery terrain.
“The dam is undergoing routine inspection and strengthening work. During this period, access will remain restricted to avoid any accidents or disturbances to maintenance activities,” said a department spokesperson.
Local authorities have placed warning signage and temporary barricades at all entry points. Security personnel will also be stationed to ensure compliance. Residents and tourists are advised to refrain from attempting unauthorized entry, both for their own safety and to avoid penalties.
While the closure is expected to be an inconvenience for some, particularly weekend tourists and photographers, the administration has requested the public’s cooperation and patience during this crucial period.
The dam is expected to reopen by August 20, subject to weather conditions and the completion of the ongoing work.
Panaji, July 1, 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened a strategic meeting to plan the promotion of Goa’s rich culinary heritage as part of its monsoon tourism campaign for the month of July and August. This initiative falls under the broader #GlowOnArrival campaign, which aims to offer immersive and regenerative experiences to visitors during the monsoon season.
The meeting was chaired by Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik along with Managing Director of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; OSD to Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Shawn Mendes; General Manager, GTDC, Shri Gavin Dias; Dy. General Manager (Marketing), GTDC Shri Deepak Narvekar; Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar; President of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) Shri Jack Sukhija; and several representatives from the state’s hospitality sector.
The initiative aims to position Goa as India’s leading food destination by curating special culinary celebrations where every cuisine from authentic Goan dishes to regional Indian fare and global flavours is showcased across the state. The campaign is designed to highlight how food can be a powerful lens to explore Goa’s vibrant culture, people, and landscapes, especially during the lush and immersive monsoon season. It aims to invite tourists to engage with Goa’s diverse food heritage while showcasing the seamless fusion of global influences with local ingredients through events where chefs use local Goan produce and restaurants present cross-cultural culinary experiences.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, said, “The objective of this initiative is to offer visitors an opportunity to experience a unique side of Goa during the monsoon through its diverse culinary traditions and evolving food culture. By highlighting both traditional monsoon delicacies and contemporary global dishes prepared with local ingredients, we aim to present Goa as a destination where food reflects heritage, creativity, and a deep sense of place.”
As part of #GlowOnArrival monsoon campaign, Goa Tourism has also introduced month-wise thematic promotions that will run from June to September 2025. These include: June showcased Festivals of Goa, and highlighted vibrant seasonal celebrations such as Sao Joao and Chikhal Kalo;August – Experience & Adventures of Goa, promoting eco-adventures such as monsoon treks, plantation visits, and soft adventure activities; and September, along with World Tourism Day, spotlights Goa’s diverse attractions—from forts and monuments to waterfalls, museums, and scenic drives.
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, will continue working to strengthen Goa’s brand as a regenerative, culturally rich, and flavour-forward tourism destination during the monsoons.
Miramar, Goa | June 27, 2025 — The excitement is palpable as Susegado Strike Fight Night 3, Goa’s premier professional boxing showcase, returns on June 28 at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias, promising an electric evening of elite matchups, local pride, and rising stars in Indian boxing. The event, supported by Goa Tourism and sanctioned by the Indian Boxing Council (IBC), marks another major milestone in the state’s push toward building a serious combat sports culture.
All eyes will be on Goa’s own featherweight champion, Pralhad Panda, as he puts his IBC West Zone Featherweight Title on the line against Amit Kumar of Pune. The 29-year-old Panda, hailing from Bastora, captured the title at the previous edition of Fight Night and is now set to defend it on his home turf in front of an energized local crowd.
“Defending my belt in Goa means a lot to me. This is where I’ve trained all my life. I intend to make this opportunity count,” said Panda, signaling his readiness for an intense showdown.
The title fight is scheduled for eight rounds and serves as the headline bout of the night.
A Diverse and Dynamic Fight Card
The event boasts a six-bout lineup featuring 12 fighters from across India, including two women’s fights, making this edition the most inclusive and competitive to date.
Full Fight Card Includes:
🥊 Main Event – Featherweight Title Fight Pralhad Panda (29, Goa) vs Amit Kumar (27, Pune)
🥊 Men’s Super Flyweight Kailas Gauns (30, Chimbel, Goa) vs Prasad Katnoor (22, Virar)
🥊 Women’s Super Flyweight Ramandeep Kaur (28, Bangalore) vs Rupika Rani (19, Abohar, Punjab)
🥊 Women’s Light Flyweight Amruta Kale (25, Pune) vs Saanvi Gandhi (19, Chennai)
🥊 Men’s Super Lightweight Maninder Singh (22, Barnala, Punjab) vs Bharany Velmurugan (30, Pondicherry)
All non-title bouts are scheduled for six rounds each. The official weigh-in ceremony will be held on June 27 at Fitness Bar, Panaji.
Growing Goa’s Pro Boxing Landscape
Susegado Strike’s founders — Luigson Fernandes, Clyde Lobo, and Prathamesh Naik — emphasized that this is not just a fight night, but a sustained effort to put Goa on India’s professional boxing map.
“Susegado Strike isn’t just about throwing punches—it’s about giving Indian boxers a stage they deserve and building a culture of professional boxing in Goa,” said Luigson Fernandes.
“We’ve curated this fight card based on merit, form, and readiness. Each matchup is designed to challenge and showcase talent,” added Clyde Lobo.
This edition also highlights gender inclusion in combat sports with two women’s bouts — a move the organizers call a step toward greater equity and representation.
“Our long-term goal is to make Goa a recurring stop on the national pro boxing circuit,” said Prathamesh Naik. “Fight Night 3 is not just a sporting event — it’s a blueprint for sports tourism, youth engagement, and athletic opportunity.”
Boxing with Purpose
Susegado Strike Fight Night 3 is more than a thrilling night of action — it’s a celebration of Goa’s emerging sporting identity. From nurturing homegrown heroes like Panda and Gauns to elevating the profile of Indian boxing, the event signals a future where Goan athletes punch above their weight on the national stage.
Panaji, June 23, 2025 – The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) is inviting nature lovers and adventure seekers to experience the magic of the monsoons with a special Trekking Expedition to Tambdi Surla Waterfalls, scheduled for Sunday, 29th June 2025.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, this monsoon trek offers participants a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
🌧️ Explore Goa’s Monsoon Magic
Monsoon in Goa transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise, and few places capture this seasonal charm better than Tambdi Surla Waterfalls. Nestled deep within the forest, the falls cascade into a serene natural pool — an ideal spot for a refreshing dip amidst nature.
The trail to the waterfall begins at the famous Tambdi Surla Shiva Temple, a revered 12th-century monument built in the Kadamba style of architecture. A visit to this ancient temple adds a spiritual and historical dimension to the trek.
🌿 A Trek for the Adventurous and the Curious
The trek is moderately challenging, taking approximately 90 minutes one way, and is suitable for participants in good physical health. Along the way, trekkers will experience:
Dense tropical forests
Flowing monsoon-fed streams
Rich biodiversity including birds, butterflies, and flora
The peaceful sounds of the forest and rushing waters
This immersive journey offers a deep connection with nature and is ideal for trekking enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to explore Goa beyond its beaches.
🚌 Travel & Logistical Information
GTDC has arranged convenient transport from multiple locations to ensure a hassle-free experience for participants:
Mapusa Residency: Departure at 7:00 AM
Margao Residency: Departure at 6:45 AM
Paryatan Bhavan, Panaji: Reporting time at 7:30 AM
Additional Pick-up Points: Old Goa, Banasthari, Farmagudi, and Ponda
💰 Registration & Inclusions
The trekking expedition is priced at ₹1400/- per person, which includes:
Transport to and from the site
Professional guiding services
Nutritious lunch
Participants are advised to carry:
Rainwear and an extra pair of clothes
Trekking shoes or sturdy footwear
Snacks, water bottle, and binoculars
A spirit of adventure and respect for nature
Note: Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited. Participants are urged to avoid littering and refrain from using plastic in the sanctuary area to help preserve the natural ecosystem.
🌱 Promoting Eco and Adventure Tourism
This initiative is part of GTDC’s ongoing efforts to promote nature-based and adventure tourism in Goa’s lesser-explored hinterlands, especially during the vibrant monsoon season. By spotlighting hidden gems like Tambdi Surla, GTDC aims to encourage sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and preserves natural heritage.
📞 Booking & Contact Information
Interested participants can book their trek or get more information by contacting:
The charming hill station of Shimla, known for its scenic beauty and cool weather, has been overwhelmed by an unprecedented tourist rush over the past two weeks, leading to a significant strain on the town’s infrastructure. A staggering 300,000 vehicles have entered the town, a surge that has raised serious concerns about traffic congestion, parking shortages, and the overall management of tourism in this popular destination.
In the last two weeks alone, 15,000 vehicles per day have entered Shimla, creating a traffic nightmare for residents and visitors alike. Shimla, a town with a modest infrastructure compared to its tourist demand, has a parking capacity of just 5,000 vehicles. This disparity between the number of vehicles and available parking spaces has resulted in chaotic scenes across the town.
The roads leading into Shimla, which are narrow and winding, have become heavily congested, with traffic jams stretching for kilometers. This situation is further exacerbated by the town’s limited parking facilities, which are not equipped to accommodate the large number of vehicles arriving daily. As a result, visitors have been left circling the streets for hours in search of a place to park, while residents struggle to navigate through clogged roads.
The Impact on Local Life
The influx of vehicles has had a ripple effect on local life in Shimla. Long traffic snarls have led to delays in public transport, and the peaceful atmosphere for which Shimla is known has been replaced with constant honking and the hum of idling engines. The roads, once a quiet haven for tourists and locals alike, are now congested, particularly during peak hours.
Local businesses, especially those dependent on tourism, have felt the impact. While tourism contributes significantly to Shimla’s economy, the current situation has made it difficult for people to even reach their destinations, let alone enjoy the sights and experiences that the town has to offer.
Parking Crisis and Local Solutions
With only 5,000 parking spots to accommodate 15,000 vehicles per day, the parking crisis has become one of the biggest challenges for the local administration. Tourists often park their vehicles outside designated zones, clogging up roads and creating a safety hazard. The Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) has issued multiple warnings for illegal parking, but enforcement remains a struggle amidst the heavy tourist traffic.
To address this growing concern, the SMC has proposed several measures, including:
Expanding parking lots: New parking areas outside the main town area could help alleviate pressure on central parking spaces.
Promoting public transport: Increased use of buses and cabs could reduce the dependency on private vehicles, helping with congestion.
Carpooling options: Encouraging carpooling among tourists could also contribute to reducing the number of vehicles on the road.
Timely traffic management: Authorities are looking into more efficient traffic management systems, such as designated entry and exit points, to ease congestion.
The Way Forward: Sustainable Tourism
Shimla’s ongoing traffic woes highlight a need for sustainable tourism management. While tourism is an important contributor to the town’s economy, it is clear that the current infrastructure is not equipped to handle the massive influx of visitors.
Experts suggest that the town needs a long-term solution that balances tourism growth with environmental and infrastructural sustainability. This could include:
Developing more off-peak tourism: Encouraging travel during non-peak months to reduce pressure on the town during the high season.
Investing in eco-friendly transport: Introducing electric buses or shuttle services to ferry tourists from parking areas to popular destinations in the town.
Implementing visitor caps: Limiting the number of vehicles allowed to enter Shimla on a given day could reduce congestion and preserve the town’s charm.
The Role of Local Authorities and Tourists
While the local administration works on long-term solutions, visitors also play an essential role in reducing the impact of the tourist rush. By opting for public transport, carpooling, or using alternate modes of transport like bicycles, tourists can help ease the burden on the town’s infrastructure.
Shimla’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for other popular tourist destinations across India. The balancing act between tourism promotion and sustainable development is one that many towns and cities will have to grapple with in the coming years.
