In a bid to curb dangerous behavior and ensure visitor safety, the Belagavi district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, IAS, has announced plans to introduce guided tourism and strict visitor limits at major waterfalls and prominent tourist destinations across the region.
According to an official update, the district administration is currently drafting a comprehensive roadmap aimed at shifting toward a highly regulated and safe eco-tourism model.
Clamping Down on Risky Social Media Stunts
The decision, as conveyed by DC Mohammad Roshan’s administration, comes as a direct response to a string of hazardous incidents last year. Officials noted that numerous visitors routinely crossed safety barricades, performed risky stunts, and endangered their lives—often solely to shoot videos and “reels” for social media platforms.
To prevent a repeat of these safety breaches, the district administration is collaborating closely with forest authorities to establish standard operating procedures. Detailed guidelines are expected to be finalized over the next 10 to 20 days.
What the New Rules Will Look Like
While the exact operational details are still being hammered out by the administration, the upcoming framework is set to introduce:
- Guided Tours: Mandatory or structured guided groups to ensure tourists stay within designated safe zones.
- Daily Visitor Batches: Capped daily limits on the number of tourists permitted at major destinations to prevent overcrowding.
- Stricter Enforcement: Enhanced monitoring near safety barriers.
DC Mohammad Roshan’s administration has issued a strong appeal to all tourists, urging them to strictly adhere to safety protocols.
Officials warned that if compliance is not met, they will have no choice but to implement even harsher restrictions at these popular natural hotspots.
