Mangaluru: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mullai Muhilan M P issued a precautionary order on Friday, imposing a ban on tourist visits to beaches, waterfalls, and trekking areas in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district. The decision comes as a safety measure to prevent accidents and mishaps in vulnerable areas.

Media reports quote the DC saying, "Strict action will be initiated against the people found violating the ban orders." He further emphasized that his office has issued instructions to warn people about the risks associated with narrow bridges and road cracks.

To address the dangers of landslides, geologists have identified 87 locations, with 34 of them in the Charmadi Ghat region, that are susceptible to such disasters. Additionally, there are 18 flood-prone zones within Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) limits. As part of the safety measures, 24 Home Guard volunteers have been assigned to prevent tourists from entering the waters on beaches.

The decision to ban tourist activities was reinforced by recent incidents that resulted in seven deaths in the past two weeks, five of which were due to drowning. To enhance disaster management capabilities, a decentralized system has been put in place, with disaster management teams and nodal officers designated for each gram panchayat, urban body, and ward. In total, there are 296 such disaster management teams.

Superintendent of Police C B Ryshyanth explained that certain roads leading to Subramanya have been blocked due to water levels. He urged the public to report any areas prone to landslides to the helpline numbers 112 or 1077, which are available 24x7. City Police Commissioner Kuldeep Kumar R Jain urged tourists to strictly adhere to the rules for their own safety. He emphasized that any violations would not be taken lightly, and strict action would be taken against those who defy the ban.