Following a tragic death of a Bengaluru visitor at Talasi Abbi Falls last week, the Forest Department has closed public access to the waterfall from June 1. The site, located within the Manibylu forest in Sulugodu village, Hosanagar taluk, is now barricaded with warning signs posted at entry points. Officials have cited the dangerous depth of the falls as unsuitable for tourism.
🔹 Access Restrictions & Legal Warning
Visitors are now prohibited from entering the forest path leading to the falls. Forest officials have warned that unauthorised entry and photography within these areas are punishable offences.
Deputy Conservator of Forests (Kudremukh Division) Shivaram Babu emphasised the need for the closure due to safety and conservation concerns.
🔹 Content Creators Under Scrutiny
Sagar DSP Gopalkrishna Naik noted that content creators are ignoring warning boards, especially at nearby Jog Falls, climbing rocks for video shoots. Investigations are underway to identify and prosecute violators, including their supporters.
🔹 Public Response & Conservation Perspective
Locals are divided. While some express concern over tourism impact, others like Nitin Nagara say the ban could hinder Hosanagar’s growth as an ecotourism spot.
Rainland Trust’s Chirag blames social media-driven exploration for rising accidents. He called for strict legal action to deter risky behaviour.
The monsoon season makes such waterfalls visually stunning—but also highly unpredictable and hazardous, urging a balance between exploration and safety.