Kodagu DC weighs tourist safety before reopening glass bridge attractions

Two glass bridges near Abbey Falls and Udothmotte in Kodagu are under review, with the district administration set to take a call, keeping tourist safety and public interest in mind.

On Thursday, Deputy Commissioner S.J. Somasekhar inspected both sites and said appropriate decisions would be taken after assessing safety matters and regulatory compliance.

At the glass bridge near the junction leading to Abbey Falls and Mandalpatti, Mr. Somasekhar examined the permissions obtained for the project, the engineering certification of the structure, parking facilities, visitor management arrangements, and the fee charged to tourists. He directed the operators to strictly adhere to tourism regulations.

During his inspection of the glass bridge near Udothmotte, he stressed the need to prioritise visitor safety and ensure that tourist activity does not disrupt regular traffic, particularly in view of the limited parking space available at the site. He reiterated that tourism norms must be followed without deviation.

Pointing out that entry to both glass bridges had earlier been restricted as a precautionary measure during the monsoon season, the Deputy Commissioner said the restrictions would be reviewed and a decision taken after considering the interests of tourists and the general public.

Mr. Somasekhar also visited the Abbey Falls-Mandalpatti junction and interacted with jeep operators ferrying tourists to Mandalpatti. He sought details regarding fares charged to visitors, vehicle permits, and driver licences, and instructed operators to maintain safety standards and avoid causing inconvenience to tourists.

Later, he inspected a homestay near Kadagadalu in connection with a proposal to grant permission for a resort. He reviewed land conversion records, approvals obtained from the Gram Panchayat, police no-objection certificates, electricity supply, and other statutory requirements.

The Deputy Commissioner also examined safety measures at the homestay and resort, including CCTV surveillance, guest registers, and complaint registers. He directed operators to maintain records of foreign tourists, including passport and identification details, and to share information about foreign guests with the local police as mandated.

Tourism Department Deputy Director Shashidhar, consultant Jatin, owners of the glass bridges, homestay, and resort operators, and Revenue Department officials were present during the inspection.