Trekking activities above 3000m banned in Kangra

The Kangra district administration has imposed a complete ban on trekking activities above 3,000 metres until further notice. Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa has issued directives to all concerned agencies in view of safety during the autumn season.

Trekking on popular routes like Kareri, Triund and Adi Himani Chamunda now requires prior permission from the Superintendent of Police (SP), Kangra. To ensure smooth implementation, the SP’s office will deploy additional police personnel. Weather conditions, as forecasted by IMD Shimla, will play a key role in granting permissions. All prior permissions for these routes will be revoked automatically if an IMD warning or alert is issued.

The order also restricts paragliding near the Dhauladhar mountain range. However, disaster response agencies such as the NDRF, SDRF, the Mountaineering Centre McLeodganj and police teams are exempted from these restrictions.

Tourism stakeholders in Kangra have been directed to inform tourists about the restrictions and associated penalties. Violators will face action under Section 188 of the CrPC and Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasised strict compliance with these orders, which will remain effective until further instructions.

Chamba: The District Magistrate and Chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority, Mukesh Repaswal, on Wednesday issued an order banning trekking and mountaineering activities in Chamba district until further notice. The decision, implemented with immediate effect, has been made under the powers conferred by Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to ensure public safety.

In his order, Repaswal emphasised that Chamba is a prominent destination for trekking and mountaineering. However, with the onset of winter, the region is prone to sudden weather changes, heavy snowfall and avalanche risks. The ban has been imposed as a precautionary measure to protect tourists and adventure enthusiasts from potential dangers.

Tour operators, guides and individuals have been directed to comply with the order. Violators will face action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other applicable laws.

The District Magistrate also instructed the police, forest department, and local administration to strictly enforce the ban and conduct regular patrols. He noted that special permissions may be granted for emergency or scientific expeditions. The order has been issued in the interest of public safety, he said.