Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi

Udupi, June 1: With the southwest monsoon sweeping across Karnataka’s coastal belt, popular beaches such as Maravanthe and Malpe have turned into high-risk zones, forcing the district administration and tourism department to enforce strict safety measures. However, many tourists continue to flout these warnings, endangering their own lives in the process.

At the scenic Trasi-Maravanthe beach in Udupi district, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions have prompted officials to raise red flags. Warning boards in both Kannada and English, red ribbons marking danger zones, and the deployment of tourist guides are in place to discourage visitors from entering the water.

Yet compliance remains a challenge. “They are not only entering the water despite our warnings but are also standing on slippery rocks to take selfies. This is an open invitation to disaster,” said Chandrashekhar Nayak, assistant director of the Tourism department.

Maravanthe’s deep waters make it especially dangerous during the monsoon. Officials have raised the urgent need for deploying additional "tourist friends" to the district administration. They are also considering the installation of traps, similar to those used at Malpe Beach, to enhance safety. Though 23 protective walls have already been erected, enforcement remains a top priority.

At Malpe Beach, a favourite among domestic and international visitors, the administration has taken a stricter approach by imposing a complete ban on water access for the next three months. In a proactive safety move, a one-kilometre-long fishnet barrier has been installed, 20 feet from the shoreline and 10 feet in height, effectively preventing tourists from stepping into the sea.

The barricade, flagged in red and accompanied by signage in both Kannada and English, conveys a clear message. “This is a necessary step due to the rough waves and strong winds during the monsoon season,” said tourism department officials.

Currently, the beach is under the watch of five lifeguards, two tourist friends, and three coastal police officers. Additional manpower and safety equipment have been mobilised to ensure beachgoers remain safe. The net barrier will stay in place until early September, depending on prevailing sea conditions.

Despite all efforts, a segment of tourists continues to ignore warnings. “Tourists are still entering the water and ignoring our instructions. They don’t realise the risk they are taking,” said Manoj, a tourist friend stationed at Malpe.

“We are doing everything we can for their safety. But this effort will only succeed if tourists cooperate,” added assistant director Chandrashekhar.

With monsoon conditions intensifying, the tourism department and district administration are united in sending out a strong advisory: while the beaches remain a scenic draw, visitors must respect the sea to stay safe.