Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 17: In a decisive move to curb trekking-related accidents and missing incidents across the state, the Karnataka government has introduced stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at regulating trekking activities and tightening safety protocols for trekkers.

Forest minister Eshwar Khandre announced the new SOPs in Bengaluru at the seven ministers’ quarters, stating that the guidelines have been framed with the primary objective of ensuring trekkers’ safety.

He noted that Karnataka currently has 44 trekking destinations, and the revised framework has been introduced in the wake of incidents including missing cases reported at Tadiandamol in Kodagu and the death of a girl in Chikkamagaluru.

As per the new regulations, trekkers will be required to mandatorily complete online booking in advance. A certified guide will be compulsory for every 10 participants, and trekking without an authorised guide will not be permitted under any circumstances.

A tracking application will be installed on participants’ mobile phones during the trek, while guides will be equipped with GPS-enabled walkie-talkies to ensure real-time monitoring.

The SOPs also introduce a strict carrying capacity for each trekking destination, restricting entry to a maximum of 150 people at a time.

A subsequent batch will be allowed only after the previous group returns safely, ensuring regulated movement on trails. In addition, essential safety equipment such as torches and headlamps has been made compulsory for all participants.

The government has stated that these guidelines will be strictly enforced across all trekking destinations in Karnataka to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.