Dum Dum Rock, one of the prime tourist attractions on the Kodaikanal hills, would have an eco-shop to sell eco-friendly products and amenities for tourists would be created after removing encroachments soon, said Kodaikanal Forest Officer R. Murugan.
Talking to The Hindu here on Thursday, he said a proposal had been sent to the government for constructing a metal barrier and a parapet to prevent tourists from stepping into the ‘danger zone.’ Forest department was also planning to rope in self-help group members to ensure adequate protection for tourists and guide them at the tourist spot. Forest officials would continue their regular patrolling there, he added.
Admitting that there were encroachments in the area, he said the Forest department needed the support of revenue and police officials to remove them. An encroacher had moved the Madras High Court against eviction. After getting favourable orders from the court, officials would remove the encroachments and undertake development works, including creation of infrastructure facilities and more amenities, he said.
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Devadhanapatti Forest Range has erected a signboard at Dum Dum Rock cautioning tourists against entering the valley.