Team Goemkarponn
DUDHSAGAR: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) penalised 32 tourists for illegally entering railway tracks to access Dudhsagar Falls during a special enforcement operation carried out on Sunday. The offenders were collectively fined Rs 16,000.
The drive was conducted in the Dudhsagar section by a special RPF team from Castle Rock, which carried out surprise inspections between Dudhsagar and Sonalium railway stations. The operation targeted unauthorised movement along the railway corridor, despite an existing prohibition on public access through the tracks.
All those found trespassing were booked under Section 147 of the Railways Act, as amended by the Jan Vishwas Act, and each was fined Rs 500.
Railway officials said the railway route to Dudhsagar Falls remains out of bounds for visitors due to safety concerns. However, some tourists continue to reach the tracks through nearby forest paths, particularly during the monsoon season, exposing themselves to serious danger and creating risks for train operations.
The enforcement exercise formed part of an intensified surveillance campaign in the Dudhsagar region under the direction of Senior Divisional Security Commissioner Alok Kumar. The operation was undertaken by the RPF Belagavi Unit in coordination with the Vasco RPF Post.
Railway authorities have once again urged visitors to respect the restrictions and avoid entering the railway corridor, warning that strict action will continue against anyone found trespassing.
