Belthangady: In the wake of incessant rains across Dakshina Kannada district, a temporary ban has been imposed on the famous tourist destination of Belthangady taluk, ‘Gadaikallu’ trekking, with effect from July 8. Due to continuous rains, the rocks and paths of Gadaikallu hill are extremely slippery, making trekking extremely dangerous. Keeping in mind the safety of trekkers, as a precautionary measure, the Wildlife Division of the Forest Department has issued an official notification imposing mandatory restrictions on the entry of the public and trekkers.
This year, the Gadaikallu trekking was officially launched on June 1. However, a ban was imposed for the first time due to rain a few days after its commencement. Later, seeing that the situation improved, the trekking was allowed again on June 25. As heavy rains continue in Dakshina Kannada district, trekking has been put on hold again with effect from July 8.
Heavy rains are forecast across Dakshina Kannada district including Mangaluru in the next 24 hours, and the public has been advised to be vigilant. According to the Meteorological Department report, the rains will be very intense in Belthangady taluk of the district, with a heavy rainfall of about 130 mm. Due to this continuous rain, there is a fear of flooding in low-lying areas.
It has been warned that the possibility of landslides in the Ghat areas and hilly areas of Dakshina Kannada district has increased due to the rains. Therefore, motorists travelling on Ghat roads and the public living in the foothills of the hills should take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel, said Revenue and Disaster Management officials.a