Karnataka forest department officials have imposed fines on 32 tourists for engaging in illegal trekking activities at the Dudhsagar Falls, a popular monsoon destination located on the border of Karnataka and Goa.
Operation Details and Violations
During a targeted operation on July 7, 2026, forest personnel caught the group trespassing onto railway tracks through adjacent forest areas to reach the waterfall. The tourists circumvented the designated entry points and official trekking routes, which are closed during the monsoon season for safety reasons.
According to a forest department official, the violators were found walking along the railway line, which is strictly prohibited. The operation was conducted jointly with railway police and local guides.
Fines and Legal Action
Each tourist was fined Rs. 5,000 under the Karnataka Forest Act, 1963, for entering a protected forest area without permission. The total amount collected from the fines is Rs. 1,60,000. In addition, the tourists were issued a warning that repeat offenses could lead to stricter penalties, including imprisonment.
“Illegal trekking not only endangers lives but also damages the fragile ecosystem,” said a senior forest officer. “We are intensifying patrolling to deter such activities.”
Safety and Environmental Concerns
Dudhsagar Falls sees a surge in visitors during the monsoon, but the forest department closes official trekking paths from June to September due to slippery trails and the risk of flash floods. Despite this, many tourists attempt to reach the falls through unauthorized routes, often using the railway track as a shortcut.
Railway authorities have also flagged the danger of trains passing through the curved track near the falls, which has limited visibility. In recent years, there have been multiple accidents involving trespassers on this stretch.
Previous Incidents and Enforcement
This is not the first such action. In 2025, the forest department fined over 100 tourists for similar violations. Officials have appealed to visitors to follow rules and use only permitted guides and entry points.
The department plans to deploy more surveillance cameras and conduct regular patrols to curb illegal trekking. Tourists are advised to check official guidelines before planning a visit to Dudhsagar Falls.
