Team Goemkarponn
KARNATAKA: The Karnataka Forest Department has temporarily barred visitors from entering several waterfalls and forest areas along the Goa-Karnataka border after a drowning incident near Surla and continuing heavy rainfall across the Western Ghats heightened safety concerns.
The decision comes after a youth from Belagavi lost his life while visiting the Surla area. Officials said the combination of swollen rivers, overflowing streams and slippery terrain has made popular monsoon destinations unsafe for tourists.
Belagavi Deputy Conservator of Forests N.E. Kranthi said the precautionary measure was taken to prevent further accidents as persistent rainfall has significantly increased the risk in forested areas and around waterfalls.
Authorities noted that water levels in rivers and streams are rising rapidly, while muddy trails and powerful currents pose a serious threat to visitors. The restrictions will remain in force until conditions improve.
Tourists from both Karnataka and Goa have been urged to stay away from the affected locations and cooperate with officials enforcing the safety measures. The department has warned that anyone entering restricted zones despite the ban could face legal action under the provisions of the Forest Act.
The order covers several well-known monsoon destinations in Khanapur taluka, including Surla Waterfall, Vajrapoha Waterfall near Jamboti, waterfalls in the Kankumbi region and natural attractions inside the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, which attract large numbers of visitors each rainy season.
The prohibition also extends to forest areas around Kankumbi, Jamboti, Surla Ghat, the Tilari Backwaters, and the Mhadei River basin, including its tributaries, where continuous rainfall has caused rivers and streams to flow at dangerous levels.
Forest officials said the restrictions are purely preventive and intended to safeguard lives until the monsoon weakens. They have advised nature enthusiasts and weekend travellers to defer their visits until authorities declare the affected areas safe for tourism once again.
