Mysore: In the wake of increasing number of trekkers entering forest areas without prior permission, State Forest Department has decided to allow trekking only on the designated routes inside forest areas across Karnataka from November 1 onwards.

Speaking to the reporters on Sunday August 24, Vinay Luthra, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), said that the Department has identified about 12 trekking routes in Anshi, Dandeli, Kudremukh, Kodagu, Jogimatti, Castle Rock and other places in the State.

The designated areas are well-documented and free of elephant conflict zones, with each route having different difficulty level of trekking.

He said that the idea of opening these routes was to allow enthusiasts to trek on these designated paths and not to wander or lose their way, which could prove fatal.

“Locals, who are well-versed with the terrain, will be appointed as guides,” he said and added that guides would undergo training in September.

Trekkers and trekking organizations interested in availing the services of these guides must contact the Forest Department.

The move is also aimed at cutting down the dependence on jeeps and promoting trekking in such places which would also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution, as less vehicles ply inside the National Parks.