In a recent announcement, the district administration has banned tourists from venturing into rivers in Valparai, specifically 20 spots identified as dangerous, following an accident in which five college students drowned.
This announcement came from district collector Kranthi Kumar Pati. He mentioned that bathing or taking photographs near the identified spots is not permissible. Those found violating this ban would face severe repercussions.
The 20 places identified include Nallakathu River, which is the site of the incident, Koolangal River, waterfalls estate river, Sholayar Arch, Stanmore River, Vellamalai Tunnel, Gejamundi Tunnel, Sakthi Estate River, Thalanar Waterfalls, Kadambarai Dam, Saddle Dam, Upper Aliyar Dam, Kadambarai Tunnel, the river running in front of Sholayar dam, Chinnakallar, Nallamudi-Poonjolai Valley, Tiger Valley at Waterfalls Estate, Anali Waterfalls, and Thangavel River in Manambolly.
The locals are aware of the dangers. However, tourists often lack enough awareness about the potential of unpleasant incidences. Noting that Pati also laid out why tourists must take the directive seriously. He said that the rivers and water bodies mentioned are deep and experience powerful water currents. To ensure more caution, the authorities have also installed warning boards around the mentioned locations. In addition to that, they also congregated to devise long-term, solid safety measures to prevent future incidents.