Kodagu: Unauthorised trekking, drone flights banned in Nelji-Peruru
In a press release, the department said it had noticed the promotion of such activities through social media.
The Forest Department of Kodagu has issued a stern warning against unauthorized trekking and tourism activities in the Nelji-Peruru region, which is renowned for its diverse flora, including Strobilanthes species, and natural water sources. The department expressed concern over the promotion of such activities via social media platforms.
Nelji and Peruru, situated near forest regions, are part of a sensitive wildlife habitat where wild elephants are frequently spotted. The department emphasized that venturing into adjoining forest areas beyond private land boundaries is a punishable offense under the Karnataka Forest Act of 1963.
Moreover, the department banned any activities that could potentially harm the delicate shola-grassland ecosystem. This includes activities like plucking, trampling, or destroying native vegetation. Similarly, unauthorized drone flights over forest areas are also prohibited under the applicable forest and wildlife protection laws.
The Forest Department stressed that uncontrolled tourism in these sensitive zones, which are frequented by elephants, could pose a severe threat to human life. In the unfortunate event of wildlife conflicts, injuries, loss of life, or any other untoward incidents during such tourism activities, the organizers and agencies involved would be held directly responsible under applicable civil and criminal laws.
Any violations of these rules would be promptly reported to the competent district authorities for further administrative action, as stated by the Range Forest Officer.
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