A New Era of Trekking Safety
In response to a growing number of trekkers and a series of safety incidents, authorities have introduced significant changes to how treks are managed, particularly in Karnataka. Following several cases of missing persons in early 2026, the Karnataka Forest
Department rolled out a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to enhance trekker safety, regulate visitor numbers, and protect the fragile ecosystem. The new rules apply to all treks conducted in forest areas and are being enforced for tour operators, private organizers, and individual adventurers alike. This marks a major shift from a previously less regulated environment to a structured system focused on accountability and accident prevention.
How GPS Tracking and Mandates Work
The headline change is the mandatory use of GPS-enabled technology. Under the new SOP in Karnataka, certified nature guides are now required for all treks on approved routes, with a ratio of one guide for every ten trekkers. These guides are equipped with GPS-enabled walkie-talkies for constant communication with a base camp. Trekkers themselves are required to install a mobile application with a route map, which allows forest officials to monitor their location in real-time. If a trekker strays from the designated path, this technology helps locate them swiftly, drastically reducing the 'search' in search and rescue.
What This Means for Trekkers
For anyone planning a trek in popular Karnataka destinations like Kudremukh, Tadiandamol, or Kodachadri, these rules have practical implications. First, all trek permits must be booked online in advance through the official Aranya Vihara portal; spot bookings are no longer allowed. Second, solo trekking is effectively banned on these routes, as even a single trekker will be assigned a mandatory guide. There are also caps on the number of daily visitors—usually around 150 people per trail—to reduce overcrowding and environmental strain. While this requires more planning, the result is a safer and more organized experience on the trail.
The Technology of Safety
The GPS devices being used are more than just a pin on a map. Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and satellite messengers operate independently of mobile networks, using satellite systems to transmit distress signals and precise coordinates from remote areas. When activated, these devices can trigger a rapid response from rescue services. While the Karnataka model focuses on guide-held walkie-talkies and a mobile app, the principle is the same: creating a digital safety net in areas where traditional communication fails. This system not only aids in finding lost individuals but also ensures that guides maintain regular contact with base camps for accountability.
Beyond the GPS: A Culture of Responsibility
While technology is a powerful tool, the new rules also foster a broader culture of safety and responsible tourism. The SOPs include mandatory pre-trek briefings on trail conditions, wildlife encounters, and safety measures. Strict rules against littering, carrying prohibited items, and lighting campfires aim to preserve the natural beauty of the Ghats. In Maharashtra, the apex mountaineering body has also issued extensive guidelines for the monsoon season, urging trekkers to be well-prepared, respect the environment, and avoid unnecessary risks. This holistic approach emphasizes that safety is a shared responsibility between operators, authorities, and trekkers themselves.
