In a heartbreaking incident, a senior citizen couple from Mumbai lost their lives after being swept away by high waves while taking a morning stroll along Candolim Beach on Friday. The unfortunate event occurred around 11 AM, despite warnings about the perilous sea conditions during the monsoon season.
The couple, Prakash Doshi, 73, and Harshita Doshi, 69, were part of a group of 14 tourists visiting Goa. While walking along the beach, three members of the group were suddenly engulfed by a surge of waves. Local residents at the scene acted swiftly and managed to rescue one woman, Kalpana Parekh, 68, who is currently receiving treatment at Goa Medical College and Hospital. Tragically, the Doshis could not be saved.
Superintendent of Police Akshat Kaushal emphasized the dangers of the monsoon season, which spans from June to September, and the subsequent rough sea conditions. During this period, Goa’s beaches are officially closed for swimming due to hazardous rip currents, high tides, and strong winds. The west coast, stretching from Phalghar in Maharashtra to Udupi in Karnataka, is currently under a severe high tide alert, with waves anticipated to reach heights of 4 to 4.3 meters.
Lifeguarding agency Drishti has reiterated its warnings, urging the public to avoid swimming and to stay clear of rocky areas, cliffs, and hills along the shoreline, which become especially treacherous due to slippery surfaces during the monsoon. The advisory highlights the significantly increased risks posed by the turbulent sea conditions.
The monsoon season, characterized by heightened rainfall and unpredictable weather, has made water activities along the coast exceptionally dangerous. Visitors are advised to exercise extreme caution and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent such tragic incidents.
For those venturing to Goa’s scenic beaches, it is crucial to respect the safety advisories and recognize the inherent risks posed by the monsoon season’s volatile weather patterns.
