Kodagu district administration bans ‘disaster tourism’

Kodagu, devastated by the recent floods, is visited by a lot of people and which made the Kodagu district administration ordering a crackdown on ‘disaster tourism’. The incessant rains during the second week of August resulted in landslips and floods which claimed the live at least 20 people in the district. Earlier this month, the district administration had directed all hotels, homestays and resorts in Kodagu not to accept bookings till August 31.

Many curious people – both locals and outsiders – are visiting some of the disaster-hit areas in and around Madikeri. Some of the worst affected areas like Jodapala, Madenada or Hattihole are not easily accessible, but areas near Madikeri town remain accessible.

The presence of tourists to the affected paces is causing troubles to the relief vehicles and volunteers from accessing the place amidst the traffic. A release state that authorities have taken note of the presence of a large number of people including tourists in badly hit areas and have issued fresh directives to hotels, resorts and homestays not to entertain visitors till August 31.

Srividya, Deputy Commissioner, Kodagu, also warned of legal action and prosecution if hotels, resorts and homestays are found violating the directive and continue to ferry people to disaster-affected areas or other places of interest. The ban is in force in visitors interest as their movement in landslip-affected areas could jeopardize their lives, the release said.