Safety first: Selfies ban, trekking restricted in several tourist spots of K’taka

Team Udayavani, Jul 29, 2023, 9:31 AM IST

Bengaluru/Hubli/Dakshina Kannada: Due to heavy rainfall in Karnataka, district administrations across various regions have taken necessary precautions to ensure the safety of tourists and residents. With the rise in water levels in rivers and waterfalls, authorities have implemented restrictions in popular tourist spots, emphasizing the need for caution during the rainy season.

The Chikkamagaluru district has been experiencing incessant rains, leading to a significant increase in the flow of water in riverbeds. Consequently, the district administration has imposed restrictions on access to several tourist spots, including Dattapeetha, Mullayanagiri, and few other falls, to prevent any untoward incidents. In a similar move, the Uttara Kannada district has also taken measures by restricting the viewing of waterfalls in the Karwar area.

Safari temporarily canceled:

Additionally, due to continuous rainfall in Nagarahole park, the safari in the Nagarahole wildlife zone has been temporarily canceled until July 31. This decision comes as a precautionary measure to safeguard tourists and wildlife. However, the Dammanakatte (Kakanakote) Safari Center under Nagarhole Park will remain open as usual, as stated in a press release.

Prohibition on selfies:

In the Dakshina Kannada district, authorities have taken strict action to ensure the safety of tourists and locals. Alongside the ban on trekking, tourists have been prohibited from taking selfies and descending into the rivers. District Commissioner Mullai Muhilan, during a press conference, emphasized that violations of these restrictions would result in appropriate actions being taken.

Bathing in the rivers of religious areas, such as Subrahmanya, Kateel, and Dharmasthala, has also been restricted due to heavy rains. The district has deployed 24 home guards across eight beaches to prevent people from venturing into the sea. Additionally, the police have been stationed to ensure compliance. Tourists and devotees have been urged to provide mandatory notice about their travel plans to help authorities streamline safety measures effectively.

The district administration has further issued a warning to the public against stopping vehicles to visit trekking spots or enjoying nature along highways. To prevent mishaps, warning boards will be installed at dangerous locations, bridges, areas prone to water accumulation, and potential collapse sites. Patrolling police have been given the authority to take strict action against anyone who ignores these warnings.

In case the public comes across hazardous conditions, they can inform the district administration control room (1077) or the police control room (112) for prompt assistance.

In light of the heavy rains, the district SP Rishyant has advised people to avoid visiting temples or going down to rivers unless absolutely necessary. Tourists and locals are urged to exercise caution and refrain from taking selfies or engaging in risky activities that might exceed safety guidelines.