Forest department puts in place checks for safe trekking in Karnataka

MANGALURU: In a bid to ensure that the trekking routes and tourist spots are safe, the Belthangady Wildlife Range has put in place several checks and measures at Gadaikal (Jamalabad fort) and Nethravati peak.
Belthangady wildlife range forest officer Swathi L said: “The aim is to provide basic amenities to tourists and to enhance security in the area.As a first step, the doors for toilets at the base of Gadaikal were replaced. Gadaikal is often referred to as a paradise standing at 1,700 feet. There are more than 1,000 steps to reach the peak. Tourists can book their slots online at kudremukhanationalpark.in. However, payments will have to be made only at the forest department’s office at the base. At present, three CCTV cameras have been placed en route, and there is also a demand from tourists to provide drinking water. During weekends, 100-150 trekkers visit the place.
Meanwhile, to ensure the place is plastic free at the ticket counter, tourists will have to provide a count of the plastic packets that they will be carrying with them during the visit. One ID card will be retained at the counter. Tourists will be given this card only once they have returned all plastic bags and water bottles they brought with them when they entered.
At Nethravati peak too, several checks have been put in place. Only guided tours are permitted on this stretch. The forest department has also created a Whatsapp group for guides and forest staff, including senior officers, to pass on any message in case of an emergency. “A guide will accompany a group of 10 trekkers on the 10-kilometre stretch. It is the duty of the guide to ensure that no plastic waste is dumped along the route,” said Swathi.