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Illegal Tourism Threatens Kanakumbi's Sensitive Forests
24 Jul
Summary
- Complaint filed over illegal tourism in Kanakumbi's sensitive reserve forests.
- Allegations against Forest Officer Mane for failing to curb trespassing.
- Social media videos submitted as evidence of unauthorized activities.
A formal complaint has been lodged with district administration and Forest Department officials regarding illegal tourism and trespassing in the ecologically sensitive Kanakumbi Range. Wildlife conservationist Giridhar Kulkarni alleges that Forest Officer Devendra Mane has failed to control these activities despite prohibitory orders. Organized treks and unauthorized tourism are reportedly ongoing in forests adjacent to the Mahadayi and Bhimgad wildlife sanctuaries, areas vital for biodiversity conservation.
Kulkarni submitted over 20 social media videos as evidence, pointing to continued visitor influx despite restrictions and the Forest Department's own trekking Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) introduced in April 2026. These sensitive forests are home to tigers, leopards, king cobras, sloth bears, gaurs, and hornbills. The complaint details specific locations like Sada, Chorla Gundi, Parwad, and Chigule waterfalls, along with Sada Caves and nearby grasslands, as frequent sites of unauthorized visits.
Responding to the allegations, RFO Devendra Mane stated that the department is making efforts to prevent entry into restricted areas, acknowledging staff shortages. He admitted that some visitors might have trespassed by evading vigilance but asserted that they are doing their best to curb such activities. Kulkarni seeks departmental and legal action against the RFO, illegal trekking operators, and participants.
