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Coimbatore Peaks: Trekkers Flock Amid Safety Concerns
28 Sep
Summary
- Thousands trekked Coimbatore's Perumalmudi and Melmudi peaks recently.
- One lost trekker required a thermal camera for forest department rescue.
- Tragic deaths underscore lack of health advisories for trekkers.
Perumalmudi and Melmudi, popular trekking destinations near Coimbatore, are experiencing a surge in visitors, raising significant safety and environmental concerns. On September 26, 2026, approximately 10,000 people trekked Perumalmudi and 3,000 climbed Melmudi, drawn by the tradition of offering prayers on Purattasi Saturdays and the allure of social media. This heavy footfall occurs despite inadequate safety protocols.
A recent rescue operation on September 27, 2026, involved locating a 57-year-old man lost for hours in Melmudi's reserve forest using a thermal camera. This incident highlights the dangers trekkers face. Moreover, two recent deaths on these peaks, including a 48-year-old man from Chennai who experienced breathing difficulties, underscore the critical need for health advisories at the trailheads.
Forest officials are struggling to manage the crowds, with trekkers engaging in activities like filming reels and performing yoga, sometimes in risky areas. While inflammable items and single-use plastics are screened at the foothills, monitoring waste disposal, especially bottled water, remains a challenge. Environmentalists advocate for capping visitor numbers to protect these vital wildlife habitats.
