Kodagu: Unauthorised trekking, drone flights banned in Nelji-Peruru
The Forest Department in Kodagu has banned unauthorized trekking and drone flights in the Nelji-Peruru region to protect sensitive wildlife habitats and prevent human-elephant conflict. Officials warned that organizers of such activities will face legal consequences for environmental damage.
Why it matters
The ban addresses the growing tension between unregulated tourism and the preservation of fragile ecosystems and wildlife safety.
The Forest Department has cautioned the public against organising commercial mass trekking and tourism activities in Nelji, Peruru and surrounding areas, which are known for their rich floral wealth, including Strobilanthes species, and natural water sources.
In a press release, the department said it had noticed the promotion of such activities through social media. The areas are located close to forest regions and form part of a sensitive wildlife habitat frequented by wild elephants.
The department warned that unauthorised entry into adjoining forest areas beyond the boundaries of private land constitutes a punishable forest offence under the Karnataka Forest Act, 1963.
It also prohibited activities that could damage the sensitive shola-grassland ecosystem, including plucking, trampling or destroying native vegetation. Unauthorised drone flights over forest areas are also prohibited under the applicable forest and wildlife protection laws, the release added.
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