An Industry at a Crossroads
Karnataka's diverse landscape is a magnet for adventure activities like trekking, ziplining, scuba diving, and rock climbing. However, the rapid growth of this sector has largely outpaced regulation. Currently, the state lacks specific, comprehensive
safety guidelines for the multitude of operators, ranging from large resorts to small homestays offering their own thrill-based experiences. This unregulated environment has led to growing concerns over equipment maintenance, staff training, and emergency preparedness. A recent, serious injury involving a man falling 40 feet from a zipline in Dandeli after a cable snapped has brought these issues into sharp focus, accelerating calls for reform from industry stakeholders and the public alike.
The First Pillar: Mandatory Registration
The foundation of a safer adventure ecosystem is knowing who the operators are. The proposed new guidelines aim to introduce a mandatory registration or licensing system for all businesses offering adventure activities. This isn't just about creating a list; registration would require operators to meet a baseline of credibility and competence. It provides the government with a mechanism to enforce standards, track operators, and hold them accountable. For tourists, a registration system would offer a clear way to identify legitimate, recognised providers, distinguishing them from unverified outfits. The Karnataka Tourism Federation has highlighted that activities in popular spots like Chikkamagaluru and Sakleshpur are often run informally, making a formal classification and registration process essential.
The Second Pillar: Regular Safety Audits
A one-time registration is not enough to guarantee ongoing safety. This is where the second pillar—regular, independent safety audits—comes in. Experts and tourism bodies are pushing for periodic inspections of equipment and sites. These audits would involve qualified professionals checking the integrity of everything from zipline cables and harnesses to rafts and climbing gear. They would also assess whether operators have clear standard operating procedures (SOPs), adequate medical support, and properly trained staff. The president of the Karnataka Tourism Federation has pointed out that many activities are currently supervised by untrained personnel, a critical gap that regular audits could help close.
The Third Pillar: A Crucial Insurance Net
Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. The third proposed pillar is mandatory insurance, a safety net for both tourists and operators. In the event of an accident, insurance provides financial support for medical treatment and covers liability, which can be ruinous for smaller operators. Earlier this year, following incidents of trekkers going missing, the Karnataka Forest Department began discussions around mandatory group insurance for all trekking teams. More recently, the department directed field officers to provide insurance cover to visitors at eco-tourism sites, a model that could be expanded across the entire adventure sector. This ensures that victims of accidents receive necessary care without delay and protects operators from financial collapse.
The Path Forward
The Karnataka tourism department has confirmed that it has begun drafting these new adventure tourism guidelines, which will be submitted to the government for approval. The proposal will detail safety standards, identify suitable activities for different geographical locations, and specify the minimum number of trained personnel required. Tourism officials have stated they will consult with all stakeholders, including operators and tourism federations, before finalising the rules. While some worry about the impact of regulations on smaller businesses, many experts believe that a basic, clear set of rules will ultimately support them by building trust and professionalism in the industry. The goal is not to restrict adventure but to create a sustainable framework where thrill and safety can coexist.
