'Groped, catcalled': Will women-only swimming zones be enough to make Goa beaches safer?

Goa's beaches have seen a rise in disturbing behaviour from some male visitors (AFP file photo)

Goa has rolled out women-only swimming zones across several of its most popular beaches in a move designed to tackle the growing problem of harassment and discomfort experienced by women.

This initiative, as reported by the Times of India, is led by the Drishti Marine lifeguard agency and supported by the state tourism department, following a surge in complaints from women who reported incidents such as catcalling, groping and unauthorised photography while visiting the coastline.

Previously renowned as a paradise for travellers seeking freedom and relaxation, Goa's beaches have seen a rise in disturbing behaviour from some male visitors in recent years. Social media platforms have amplified these concerns, with numerous accounts surfacing of women being targeted by groups of men, often under the guise of taking selfies or loitering near women in swimwear.

According to TOI, numerous women reported feeling harassed. One woman, sharing her experience online on Reddit, revealed that she was groped, catcalled, and relentlessly stared at while visiting Arambol beach.

To address these issues, authorities have established 40 demarcated swim zones on beaches including Arambol, Morjim, Baga, Calangute, Miramar, Baina, Bogmalo, Colva, Baga-2 and Ashvem, with plans to expand to over 100 zones during the peak tourist season. Each beach now features three designated areas: one for families, one for men and one exclusively for women. These sections are marked with mooring partitions and signage to ensure boundaries are respected and water sports are prohibited within these zones to enhance safety further.

Feedback from women using these zones has been largely positive, with many expressing that the arrangement allows them to enjoy the beach with greater comfort and confidence, especially when visiting alone.

However, the move has sparked debate. Some critics argue that segregating swimming areas may set a precedent for further exclusionary practices and that women's safety might be better ensured through increased policing or the deployment of special security personnel rather than physical separation.

Despite this, the tourism department maintains that the initiative is a first in India and aims to restore confidence among women visiting Goa’s beaches, noting that similar concepts exist in countries such as the UAE and Turkey.

The Times of India has reported that while the decision to introduce women-only zones has generated controversy, the underlying priority remains the safety and enjoyment of women on the state’s iconic beaches.