Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady

Beltangady, July 31: The forest department in Beltangady has installed cautionary signboards in the Charmadi Ghat region to ensure the safety of both wildlife and travellers. The initiative comes in response to motorists frequently stopping their vehicles to enjoy the scenic beauty, inadvertently disturbing wildlife and risking their own safety.

The signboards have been placed at key points, including the beginning of the ghat near Mathada Majalu and at the Dakshina Kannada–Chikkamagaluru border. These areas fall within a known wildlife corridor, with elephants and other animals often crossing the road.

The boards warn motorists not to stop their vehicles along the ghat road and prohibit the disposal of plastic or other waste in the vicinity. They also clearly state that photographing or filming wildlife, damaging their natural habitat, or engaging in any activity that disturbs animals is strictly forbidden.

The Beltangady sub-division of the Mangaluru forest division has announced that strict action will be taken against those violating these rules.

Charmadi Ghat is home to several wild animals, including elephants. Recently, a sighting of an elephant drew a crowd of people attempting to take photos, which gained widespread attention across the state. In response, forest minister Eshwar Khandre had directed officials to initiate legal action to prevent such disturbances.