The Forest Department will impose hefty spot fines upon on those who violate restrictions during the trekking season to Agasthyarkoodam.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Surendra Kumar has issued orders empowering forest guards at Agasthyarkoodam to levy fine of ₹2,000 from trekkers who do not adhere to rules.
The trekkers have been instructed to follow the path led by the forest guards. They will not be permitted to collect forest produce or disturb animals. They should not bring plastic bags, covers, bottles, matchsticks and cigarette lighters. They will not be allowed to collect logs or set them alight during treks. The use of tobacco products, liquor or other intoxicants has been banned. In view of the custom of the tribal populace in the region, the trekkers have been warned against going beyond the barricaded areas.
The first batch of 100 trekkers, including a woman, commenced their journey from the Bonacaud picket station by 9.15 a.m. with Thiruvananthapuram Wildlife Warden Y.M. Shajikumar flagging off the trek. Besides a guide and other forest personnel, a woman beat forest officer and a woman watcher accompanied the group.
Next batch of women
While no women will figure in the treks that will commence during the next two days, three women will attempt to scale the peak on January 17. For the first time, the Forest Department has entered into an agreement with United India Insurance Company Ltd. to insure the lives of all those undertaking the trek under a public insurance scheme.