Sunday Times

24

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The number of “no-selfie” zones that have been declared along the coast in the Indian state of Goa after a spate of accidents raised concerns about reckless tourist behaviour.

Authoritie­s have identified 24 areas in which selfies will be banned following a rash of accidents around the beaches, cliffs and swimming areas.

An estimated six million tourists visit the state’s stunning beaches and coastline every year.

State officials made the decision after two tourists from the southern state of Tamil Nadu died in separate accidents on June 17. Both had clambered out onto rocky outcrops in the ocean for photos, and both were swept off by large waves and drowned.

According to the Indian Express, residents and lifeguards try to stop tourists from endangerin­g themselves for photos but often receive rude replies or even physical attacks in response.

The zones will be at already establishe­d “no-swim” spots, but signage will be added to including pictorial instructio­ns, an emergency toll-free number and dos and don’ts.

A 2016 study found that more selfie deaths happened in India than in any other country, with 76 out of 127 — 60% — of all selfie deaths reported globally from 2014 to 2016. Most were related to heights, vehicles or water.

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