The Police Department has imposed restrictions on tourists visiting Balmuri waterfalls near Srirangapatna, which has already gained notoriety of being “death traps” given the frequent incidents of drowning.
The scenic and artificial waterfall, created because of the construction of a concrete barrier across Cauvery, is among the oft-visited tourist spots in Mandya district.
There are several whirlpools that are claiming tourist lives. Unmindful of the danger involved, 41 persons have drowned in the Cauvery at Balmuri since 2013. Two such incidents were reported this month.
Consequently, the police have barred tourists from walking on the barriers and enjoying “jolly dives” from the concrete structure.
A senior police officer told The Hindu that visitors’ curiosity to walk in the waters and on the barrier has ended fatally many times. “The tourist spot has been in the news frequently for deaths as the visitors ignore the warnings and signage. Hence, the decision to impose a ban was taken.”
The authorities have locked the gate leading to the barrier. “We will deploy additional policemen during weekends to prevent deaths,” the officer said.
Meanwhile, the police have decided to permanently prevent the public from venturing into the waters at some identified dangerous spots at Balmuri. The department has identified a safe place where there are ‘sopanas’ (steps) for the tourists to enjoy. According to the department, CCTV cameras will be installed to monitor the visitors.
