Citizens visiting the waterfalls in Khanapura taluk of the district have been taken aback by the Forest Department’s recent decision. Starting from Sunday (June 16), the department has imposed restrictions on public access and viewing of the waterfalls. This decision has been prompted by unfortunate incidents where individuals visiting the waterfalls in different forest areas of Khanapur taluk have tragically taken their own lives.
Previously, the forest department had implemented a prohibition on entering the forest, with only a few days during the rainy season providing an opportunity to witness the captivating beauty of nature. However, this restriction was eased to accommodate nature enthusiasts and trekkers. Regrettably, some young individuals took advantage of this relaxation and engaged in immoral activities under the guise of waterfall viewing. Their actions often put their lives at risk. Consequently, considering these circumstances, the forest department has taken decisive action by imposing a ban on waterfall viewing.
To preserve the serenity and sanctity of the forest area, the influx of numerous trekkers during weekends and holidays has become a concern. Engaging in reckless activities such as joyrides, risky stunts, and excessive selfie-taking has caused inconvenience for some individuals. In response, the forest department’s superiors have instructed the implementation of a complete blockade on all routes leading to the forest areas of the taluk. To enforce this measure, an ample number of personnel have been deployed, and prominent notice boards have been placed along the main roads, clearly indicating the ban. Emphasizing the importance of public safety and forest conservation, Zonal Forest Officer Kavitha Eeranatti urges the cooperation of the public with the department’s officials and staff.
Tragedy struck a few days ago when a young man lost his life due to drowning while visiting a waterfall in the forest near Chorla village in Khanapur taluk. Prompted by this unfortunate incident, the police department has made a request to the forest department officials to enforce restrictions on trekking and waterfall viewing in the area. Responding to this request, the forest department has implemented restrictions on the viewing of the falls starting from Sunday. Khanapur Police Inspector Manjunath Nayka emphasized that both the forest and police departments will collaboratively take action against individuals who defy the ban and visit the falls.
