The forest Government has decided to put a ‘No Entry’ at all the waterfalls in Khanpur including Chikhale, Chigule, Chapoli, Maab, Kankumbi, and Parwad as many new and young people have experienced accidents in the recent past.
This is not the first time the Forest Department has banned entry into Khanapur waterfalls, the same was seen last year and a few years back as well.
The decision came after noticing many tourists and young people are stupidity by taking selfies at the edges or swinging in the waterfall which can be dangerous in the rainy season.
The decision to entry ban or no entry at Khanapur waterfalls is just for the safety of people. The monsoon has arrived and the water flow is high and a sudden increase in the water level is common during monsoon season.
Knowing all these things, the Forest Department has taken the precaution of no entry to avoid any serious accidents.
Which Waterfalls in Khanapur is Under No Entry
All the waterfalls that are in Khanapur Taluk are under restrictions and ‘No Entry’ for all people. The waterfalls are:
- Maan
- Chapoli
- Chikhale
- Parwad
- Kankumbi
- Chigule
Fines for Violating ‘Entry Ban’ Restriction
If someone is found violating the restrictions of the Forest Department or entering the waterfall area in Khanapur, he/she may face imprisonment for one year and a fine.
The punishment is as per the Karnataka Forest Act 1963 section 24.
Khanapur is the source of many rivers including Mahadayi, Malaprabha, Markandeya, and Pandari. During the time of monsoon, an increase in water level is natural, and even the jungle area becomes dense. About 92,000 hectares of forest are spread in Khanapur.
Past Incidents in Khanapur Waterfalls
In the past also, the Karnataka Forest Department has put a ban on visitors to Khanapur waterfalls mainly for two reasons:
- visitors were polluting the place too much
- due to safety reasons during monsoon