Moodabidri: There are many attractive picnic spots in and around Moodabidri with excellent tourism potential. Totally neglected by the government and the department of tourism, they have turned into death traps and garbage dumps over a period of time.

Students in large numbers get drawn by these attractive locations and visit these places during weekends and holidays. Three students have lost their lives in the recent past. Most water spots are very attractive with blue and green waters and a beautiful small island induces one to venture deep, unaware of swimming. There are neither signboards nor any security apparatus like guards to protect innocent lives who like to take a break from their daily routine. On an average, two people lose their lives every year according to residents staying nearby.

Historical Matadakere on Moodibidri – Karkala highway needs funds upto 5 lakhs as the proposal for safety apparatus submitted by the Beluvai GP is pending before the government. The infrastructure will provide livelihood to village youth if implemented but is lying unattended endangering tourist lives. The slippery stones have already taken away few lives and have left many injured in some cases grievously. Villagers around Kanchibailu-Arbikatte falls are up in arms against the authorities as they feel tourists addicted to drinks and drugs are a menace.

If security is of concern at one end, tourist littering serene spot with plastics and glass bottles is another issue which is worrying people. One can see hundreds of used food packets and liquor bottles strewn across a wide area damaging the natural picturesque surroundings rarely explored until a few ago. Tourists have ignored warnings from local elected representatives and hence residents want these locations to be declared as reserve zones to ensure safety and cleanliness if concerned authorities are unable to bring about changes through administrative reforms.

The government has spent large amounts towards the development of Kadalakere where one can find a bird sanctuary but the results are far from satisfactory. For now, the tourist locales are simply crying for attention in terms of safety, security and cleanliness.