15 persons from Bengaluru booked for off-roading in forest in Sakleshpur Karnataka, 10 vehicles seized
The Hindu
S.L. Shilpa, RFO of Sakleshpur, told mediapersons that the tourists drove their vehicles up to the peak of Murkannu Gudda, trespassing a forest.
Cases have been booked against 15 persons and 10 four-wheelers have been seized for off-road driving in forest areas of Karnataka in violation of laws governing forests.
During a special drive by officials of Sakleshpur range in Hassan district in Murkannu Gudda forest, near Achhanahalli, on July 15, officials stopped some tourists from Bengaluru who were part of a group that was on an off-road adventure trip.
S.L. Shilpa, RFO of Sakleshpur, told mediapersons that the tourists drove their vehicles up to the peak of Murkannu Gudda, trespassing a forest. “We stopped the vehicles and seized them for violations. We have booked a case against 15 persons under the relevant section of the Karnataka Forest Act 1963,” she said.
The officer said driving vehicles in the forest would damage the vegetation. “We have already warned people running homestays and resorts against conducting any event in forests. We will continue to book cases against those who violate the rules,” she added.
Pakistan coach Gary Kirsten stated that “not so great decision making” contributed to his side’s defeat to India in the Group-A T20 World Cup clash here on Sunday. The batting unit came apart in the chase, after being well placed at 72 for two. With 48 runs needed from eight overs, Pakistan found a way to panic and lose. “Maybe not so great decision making,” Kirsten said at the post-match press conference, when asked to explain the loss.