Chamarajanagar District Implements Time Restrictions for MM Hills Pilgrimage Following Fatal Leopard Attack
In a significant move aimed at ensuring public safety, the Chamarajanagar district administration has imposed strict time limits for entry and exit to the revered Male Mahadeshwara Hills (MM Hills) shrine. This decision comes in the immediate aftermath of a tragic incident where a pilgrim from Mandya lost his life in a leopard attack on Wednesday. The authorities have taken this precautionary step to prevent any further untoward occurrences while rescue operations for the leopard are underway.
Restrictions on Trekking and Vehicle Movement
Initially, the administration had temporarily banned devotees from undertaking the traditional padayatra (foot pilgrimage) from Thaalabetta to the hilltop shrine, which is approximately 7 kilometers away. Thaalabetta serves as the base point for the shrine, situated at an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level. Even the movement of two-wheelers has been restricted until January 24, as confirmed by officials. This measure was implemented following a formal request from the deputy forest conservator of the MM Hills wildlife sanctuary, emphasizing the need for safety until the leopard is captured.
Leopard Rescue Efforts and Challenges
T Javaregowda, the additional deputy commissioner of Chamarajanagar, provided insights into the ongoing rescue mission. He stated that the leopard responsible for the fatal attack was recently sighted using drone camera technology. Efforts are currently focused on rescuing the big cat, but capturing it in the hilly terrain presents significant challenges. To aid in this endeavor, trap cages have been strategically placed across the region. The administration is coordinating closely with forest department officials to ensure a swift and safe resolution to the situation.
Alternative Arrangements for Devotees
Recognizing the importance of the pilgrimage for thousands of devotees, the district administration has made alternative arrangements to facilitate their journey. Additional buses will be operated to transport pilgrims, ensuring they can still visit the shrine without undertaking the risky trek. A police officer noted that devotees have been largely compliant with the ban orders, opting to travel by four-wheelers or buses instead. This proactive approach aims to balance religious practices with essential safety protocols.
Pilgrimage Patterns and Future Precautions
The Male Mahadeshwara temple is a major pilgrimage site, attracting lakhs of devotees annually from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and other states, particularly during festive seasons. On normal days, the average daily footfall is estimated at around 5,000 pilgrims. Many of these devotees prefer to perform the padayatra from Thaalabetta as part of fulfilling their vows, often trekking in groups during odd hours, sometimes starting before daybreak. An officer highlighted that, historically, no major incidents had been reported until now. Moving forward, plans are being developed to allow pilgrimages only during daytime hours as a long-term precautionary measure to enhance safety for all visitors.
