File photo of the Western Ghats range near Talacauvery in Kodagu district. | Photo Credit:
In order to avoid congestion in pedestrian areas across the State, the government has decided to limit the number of pedestrians visiting these areas.
Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre on Thursday, while launching an online ticket booking portal for trekking, said the State has huge potential for eco-tourism, but the government is concerned about ensuring that it does not harm the environment.
“Therefore, the State will limit the number of travelers to 300 per day on all walking routes,” said Mr. Chandre.
He said there was chaos when about 5,000 to 6,000 tourists visited Kumara Parvatha on January 26-27 this year to avoid similar situations, the number of pedestrians was limited.
The Minister launched a portal where the public can book tickets for all hiking trails in the State.
Currently, tickets can be booked for five routes: Kumara Parvatha (via Subrahmanya), Bidahalli to Kumara Parvatha, Bidahalli-Kumara Parvatha-Subrahmanya, Chamarajanagar-Nagamale, and Talacauvery-Nishani Motte.
“At the end of this month, another 40 routes will be added to the track. This place will also provide ticket bookings for wildlife safaris and boat safaris,” said the Minister.
One number of up to 10 tickets
Officials said that one phone number can be used to book up to 10 tickets. “If it is canceled seven days in advance, the full amount will be refunded. A withdrawal after that will result in a partial refund, minus a certain amount,” officials said.
This website also provides brief descriptions and photographs of various hiking trails in the State, providing information and helping visitors make informed decisions about their trip.
Mr. Khandre said that some private companies organize the treks by buying tickets in bulk and thus prevent the genuine passengers from accessing them. To address this issue, the booking system now requires government-issued photo ID cards, such as a PAN card or driving license, to be uploaded when booking tickets.
Plastic ban
He said that plastic water bottles, food bags and other items for walking and walking in the forest will be banned.
“Forest travelers and pedestrians will be asked to voluntarily dispose of prohibited items in the trash at the first checkpoint. In the second phase, an examination will be conducted. If plastic bottles, carrier bags, alcohol bottles, cigarettes, lighters etc. are found during the inspection, a fine will be charged,” he said.
Published – October 04, 2024 07:11 am IST