Following a recent incident of 10 students getting stranded in the Ballalarayana Durga forest area in Mudigere taluk of Chikkamagaluru district during a trekking expedition, Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre has called for strict enforcement of guidelines for trek trails in the State.
A police team and officers of the Forest Department in Mudigere taluk of Chikkamagaluru district rescued 10 students from Chitradurga who were stranded in the forest after getting lost at night during the trekking expedition on June 10.
In response to this, Mr. Khandre has written a note to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Chief of Forest Force stating that while purchasing tickets online for trekking, the website must provide complete information about the exact route to be taken for the trek, and that no one should trek without a guide.
“The estimated time required on the trekking trail, where to stay at night, and a warning that trekking should not be undertaken in areas inhabited by wildlife should be provided,” states the Minister’s note.
He said that tickets are to be issued only after those registering acknowledge and agree to this information.
He said there should be a clear warning that if anyone violates these rules and attempts to trek through unauthorised routes, action would be taken against them.
Published - June 11, 2025 10:23 pm IST
