Greens question forest dept oversight after rescue of trekkers
Chikkamagaluru/ Shivamogga: Following rescue of medical students from Ballalarayana Durga Fort in Chikkamagaluru, environmentalists have raised concerns about the forest department's oversight of trekking activities, despite the online registration.
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Critics highlighted the website's inadequate information and noted lack of amenities at the district's trekking locations. The situation prompted forest, ecology and environment minister Eshwar B Khandre to issue a directive after social media discussions about trekking mismanagement.
The minister, in a release, said the forest department's website, Aranya Vihaara, must have all the information. He said the trekkers should agree to the conditions, and should not change the route.
Ten medical students, who lost their way during their Ballalarayana Durga trek in Mudigere, were successfully rescued in a late-night operation Monday, ensuring their safe return Tuesday morning.
Chikkamagaluru's eleven listed trekking locations, including popular spots like Ballalarayana Durga, Netravathi Peak, Ettinabuja, and Kuduremukha, lack proper supervision. Wildlife conservation activist Veeresh G told TOI that Mudigere's Ballalarayana Durga has become an unofficial camping site.
He expressed concerns about unauthorised entry, overnight stays, alcohol consumption, and potential poaching activities, despite the presence of anti-poaching camps and checkpoints.
Shivamogga-based wildlife enthusiast Shashi Sampalli shared his recent experience of trekking Narasimha Parvatha from the Shivamogga side. Speaking to TOI, he highlighted the discrepancies in the website's information, noting that the actual 19-kilometre trek was listed as less than 10km. He emphasised the need for accurate details about distance, challenges, safety measures, and necessary preparations, including protection against leeches and wildlife encounters.
Shashi welcomed the minister's prompt action to address these issues.
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