Essential information for trekkers before planning tripsFirst-ever SOPs for trekking
In announcing the initiative, Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B Khandre stated that trekking will require a certified nature guide on any trail sanctioned by the Forest Department. “No individual will be allowed to trek without a nature guide,” he affirmed during the SOP launch.
Solo trekking banned in light of increasing missing cases
As part of the new protocol, all trekkers are required to register in advance with the Forest Department prior to beginning their trek. Authorities have warned that violations will result in strict penalties, including the blacklisting of organizers and agencies that do not comply. Solo trekking without supervision is essentially prohibited now, as even one trekker will be assigned a guide.
GPS tracking is now mandatory for trekkers
The SOPs also implement a compulsory tracking system. Every trekker must install a tracking application on their mobile devices, allowing officials to monitor movements in real-time and respond swiftly in emergencies. Additionally, there will be one certified nature guide for every ten trekkers, and all guides will possess GPS-enabled walkie-talkies.
This decision arises from several incidents that revealed deficiencies in safety and monitoring. In a recent occurrence, a tech professional from Kerala went missing during a solo trek at Tadiandamol, a well-known but challenging trail in Kodagu. She reportedly deviated from the marked path while descending and became lost in dense woods. Lacking a guide and with limited mobile service, she remained unreachable for days before being located weak and dehydrated following a large-scale search.
In another case within the Chadradrona ranges, a teenage girl from Kerala went missing during a family outing. Delays in her discovery resulted in an extended search, and her body was eventually found in a ravine along the trekking route. Officials noted that such occurrences underscored the necessity for structured systems and enhanced oversight.
Karnataka government’s initiative to avert trekking incidents
The new SOPs also incorporate extra safety and infrastructure provisions. At base camps, trekkers will receive briefings on route specifics, terrain, duration, and safety protocols, including how to handle potential wildlife encounters. Facilities such as drinking water, toilets, signposts, and designated rest areas will be created along trekking paths.
