In a recent turn of events, the government of Goa has cancelled the much awaited Lantern Festivals which was slated for 25th May. The organisers shared, "Glowfest cancelled", on their official page. The decision was taken after the protests by activists on social media. The petitions to authorities to initiate action against the likely danger to marine life, which, they said, is already suffering from various activities.

Soon the forest department swung into action. Prem Kumar R, deputy conservator of forests, wildlife and eco tourism (North) wrote to the environment secretary seeking suitable intervention “to maintain the sanctity of the turtle hatchery and nesting site at Morjim beach”.

Morjim, a turtle nesting site
For those who don’t know, Morjim is a nesting site of Olive Ridley turtles in Goa. The event will be a violation of rules and regulation of Goa’s coastal zone management authority (GCZMA), he added.
In another, Atmaram Gauns, RFO, marine range, Morjim, mentioned that the event organiser had not submitted any documents/permission for the festival. Gauns also requested Morjim PI to deploy police personnel to halt the festival.

Before this, Pernem deputy collector had directed Mandrem PI to deploy necessary police force and maintain strict vigil to ensure that the festival is not held. The tourism department has also confirmed that organisers had not sought any permission for the event.
Suneel Anchipaka, director tourism said, “Necessary action has been initiated in this regard. We have been focusing on promoting regenerative tourism and we shall not allow any event which threatens the ecology or the environment”.
However, despite the cancellation activists expressed surprise that the booking link is still not closed. “We are keeping our eyes wide open,” an activist said.
Apparently, this was Goa’s first-ever lantern festival.