In a blow to trekkers, the Forest Department has decided not to allow trekking at the Kudremukh Peak in Chikmagalur this weekend.
The decision comes in the wake of information about poaching in the region.
Kudremukh Range Forest Officer Tanish Kumar told Express: “We received information about hunters in the region and we are planning to trap them. So, we are not issuing permission for trekking. No FIR has been registered, since we are yet to find the criminals.”
Clubs from Bangalore organise regular treks to the hills during this season.
On average, officials said permission to conduct up to 25-40 treks are given during weekends.
Arun, a tour guide whose income depends on weekend treks in Kudremukh, said he hopes the Forest Department’s restrictions are temporary and expects resumption from Monday.