Mangaluru, 15 Jan 

Trekking activities have been temporarily suspended across several protected forest areas under the Kudremukh Wildlife Division as a preventive step against forest fires and to ensure public safety, officials said on Thursday.

The restriction covers all designated trekking routes falling within Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, which together form part of the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats region.

An official order enforcing the ban has been issued by the Assistant Conservator of Forests, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala. The directive comes amid heightened concerns over the increased likelihood of forest fires during the ongoing dry season.

Forest officials said unregulated human movement in forest zones during this period could significantly increase the chances of accidental fires, posing serious risks to wildlife habitats, fragile ecosystems and human life.

As per the order, entry into all notified trekking trails within the three protected areas will remain prohibited with effect from 14 January and will continue until further notice.

Authorities have appealed to tourists, trekkers and adventure groups to cooperate with the forest department and strictly comply with the temporary restrictions.

Officials noted that the decision forms part of a larger fire-prevention strategy aimed at safeguarding vulnerable forest stretches. Surveillance and ground patrolling have been stepped up in fire-prone zones to detect and respond swiftly to any incidents.

The department has cautioned that violations of the ban will invite legal action under applicable forest and wildlife protection laws.

Citizens have also been urged to remain alert and promptly report any signs of fire or illegal activities to the nearest forest office, officials added