Dental student drowns at Tilari Falls; safety lapses flagged

Belagavi: A 26-year-old dental student drowned at Tilari waterfalls in the Dhamane Reserve Forest of Belagavi taluk during a trekking trip on Saturday evening, raising fresh concerns over safety measures at eco-tourism destinations.The victim, Mohammad Shehzan of Azam Nagar, was part of a group of six friends—four women and two men—who had obtained valid entry passes and were accompanied by an authorised guide, in line with forest department regulations. Police, however, said he entered the water without wearing a safety jacket.As darkness set in soon after the incident, initial rescue efforts by local personnel were unsuccessful. A coordinated search operation involving forest officials, police and trained swimmers was launched on Sunday morning, leading to the recovery of the body, which was later handed over to the family.Tilari waterfalls, located about 65km from Belagavi city near the Maharashtra border, is a popular eco-tourism destination managed by the forest department. Formed by seepage from the Tilari dam, the site draws visitors round the year due to its lush surroundings.Belagavi Rural ACP BM Gangadhar said the victim was studying at a dental college in Raichur. "The spot is not considered highly dangerous. However, the youth appears to have attempted long-distance swimming while wearing jeans, which may have caused exhaustion and prevented him from returning safely," he said, adding that further investigation is under way.Sources said Shehzan was familiar with the location and had visited it several times earlier. He had recently returned to Belagavi to attend a private function and is believed to have planned the trek during a short break.Deputy conservator of forests Kranti NE termed the incident unfortunate and said no insurance coverage was applicable in this case. "We are in the final stages of discussions with insurance companies to extend insurance cover to tourists. The scheme is likely to be implemented within a few days," the officer said.Wildlife conservationist Giridhar Kulkarni said eco-tourism activities involve inherent risks such as difficult terrain, water hazards and limited emergency access, and called for strict enforcement of safety norms. He also pointed out that insurance coverage remains unimplemented at several eco-tourism sites, including Tilari and Bhimgad in Belagavi district, despite directives from the forest minister.
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