Karnataka Police Take Away Clothes Of Tourists Ignoring Waterfall Ban In Chikkamagaluru

Despite restrictions imposed during the rainy season, tourists continue to flock to waterfalls across Karnataka, including Belagavi, Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga, and Malenadu. However, the Karnataka Police are taking strict measures to enforce the ban and ensure public safety.

In a recent incident at Chikkamagaluru Alekan Falls Charmadi, tourists who defied the ban sign and entered the waterfall had their clothes taken away by police as a warning. Fortunately, they were let off after receiving a warning.

The Chikkamagaluru district is particularly popular among tourists, with many waterfalls in the Western Ghats drawing crowds. The Charmadi Ghat road from Kottige Hara in Mudigere taluk offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, attracting more visitors than expected over the weekend.

Earlier, Sivaram Babu, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala, had issued an order on July 1, temporarily barring tourist entry to waterfalls and other tourist spots within forests due to heavy rainfall.

"The likelihood of a large influx of tourists to waterfalls is high at this time. As a precautionary measure, we have restricted access to Bandaje waterfalls in Belthangady, as well as Arasinagundi, Kudlu, Barkala, Hidlumane, Vanakabbi waterfalls in Kudremukh, and other areas including Someshwar, Agumbe, Siddapura, Kollur Kerekatte, and Karkala wildlife sub-divisions and forest ranges," he stated.

While some tourists may be deterred by the ban and the enforcement measures, many are still willing to take the risk for a glimpse of the stunning natural beauty that Karnataka's waterfalls have to offer.