Trekkers hit cul-de-sac as sanctuaries shut for safety

Panaji: The closure of wildlife sanctuaries has disturbed the plans of trekkers. While the ban is temporary, the organisers of trekking expeditions are in a quandary after the sudden decision was made following two drownings last week.
Some have raised red flags about the safety at waterbodies and the environmental damage caused when footfall at any waterbody multiplies.
Uncertainty now grasps the July 16 expedition of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) to Wazir waterfalls in South Goa. “Our expedition is not in the wildlife sanctuary, but the passage is through it. We are awaiting the nod from the forest department,” Anil Dalal, GTDC manager and in charge of weekly monsoon treks, told TOI.
A decade ago, select professional trekking groups, such as the Goa Hiking Association, organised treks during monsoons. But over the past few years, organisers have mushroomed and some may not be professionals though they charge Rs 1,000 or more per trip. Over 20 trekking groups operate in the state, most becoming active during the rains.
Dalal said four to five guides who know the area well accompany trekkers on every trip. “During a visit to a waterfall or waterbody, we carry safety gear,” he said. “The safety of participants is our responsibility, but people should also behave responsibly.”
Vikash Kulkarni, a nature enthusiast, who offers help in organising nature treks, said that even as sanctuaries remain out of bounds, places in Bicholim and Pernem talukas can be visited. “Visitors should not disturb the environment and locals,” he said.
Sandeep Gaonkar, a university student, who until last year helped groups reach waterfalls in Canacona, said he has seen people getting into the water to retrieve cellphones. “They would have drowned had it not been for timely help,” he said. Despite warnings, people take photos standing on rocks or while in a waterbody, he added.
Varun Hegde, a founder of Soul Travelling, said treks must be guided because there is always a risk of people getting lost in the woods. Some waterfalls are colossally crowded on weekends and people tend to litter, he said.
A official said that with more people visiting waterfalls in wildlife sanctuaries, the government should cap the number at each waterfall. A crowd at a waterfall could trigger a tragedy, the officer said.