New Delhi: The Karnataka Forest Department is set to implement strict rules to ensure the safety of those who go trekking in the hill ranges of the state.
In the wake of the recent alarming cases of trekkers going missing in the Chandradrona mountain range and Tadiandamol in Kodagu, Eshwar Khandre, the Minister of Forest, Ecology and Environment of Karnataka, has instructed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to formulate a standard operating procedure (SOP) that can be a model for the rest of the country.
The recent missing cases
Recently, GS Sharanya, a 36-year-old IT professional from Kerala’s Kozhikode, went missing on April 2 during a trekking trip to Tadiandamol hills in Kodagu. The techie, who was part of a 10-member group, allegedly lost her way and got separated after setting out for a trek. She later ended up in a dense forest, where she spent four days with just water before being rescued.
Now, a 14-year-old girl from Kerala has gone missing during a family trek in the state’s Chandradrona hill range and so far, extensive search has yielded nothing. The girl, Sri Nanda, is a Class 10 student, who went to trekking with around 40 relatives when she disappeared on April 7.
What will be new standard procedure?
Khandre has given instructions on what should be included in the new standard procedure. It has been suggested to develop a special app for trekkers, similar to the ‘M-Stripes’ used in tiger reserves. This app will temporarily work on the trekkers’ mobile phones during the hike, making it easier to track them if they stray from the path.
Also, the minister has directed that group insurance be made mandatory for trekkers for their safety. This will provide financial assistance to the family in case of unexpected accidents. Guides accompanying trekkers will have more responsibility from now on. Each guide has been directed to be provided with a ‘wireless set’. This will enable connectivity even in parts of the forest where there is no network. These technical and legal measures are being taken to prevent such incidents from recurring.