Shiradi Ghat landslide threat prompts Hassan authorities to restrict tourist access as heavy monsoon rains raise safety concerns near Doddathappu on NH-75
The Hassan district administration has intensified safety measures after heavy monsoon rains increased the risk of landslides along Shiradi Ghat on National Highway 75. Authorities have prohibited tourists from visiting waterfalls, rivers, trekking routes and other vulnerable locations in Sakleshpur Taluk until further orders.
Hassan: Continuous monsoon rainfall across the Malenadu and Ghat regions of Hassan district has heightened concerns over fresh landslides along the Shiradi Ghat stretch of National Highway 75 (NH-75), the key road connecting Bengaluru and Mangaluru. Authorities have identified the area near Doddathappu as one of the most vulnerable locations, where unfinished slope protection work and ongoing soil erosion have raised fears of another major landslide.
The Sakleshpur Taluk administration has issued strict restrictions on tourist movement in vulnerable areas, urging residents and visitors to avoid waterfalls, rivers, streams, reservoirs, hilly terrain and landslide-prone locations until weather conditions improve.
"The restrictions have been imposed to safeguard human life and property as heavy rainfall continues across the region," officials said.
Shiradi Ghat Landslide Threat Increases Near Doddathappu
Officials said the stretch near Doddathappu, located on the Sakleshpur–Mangaluru section of NH-75, remains under close surveillance after continuous rainfall triggered soil movement along the hillside.
The location had witnessed a major landslide in the past, severely disrupting traffic on the national highway. This year, concern has resurfaced as mud has been flowing along a stretch of more than 200 metres, while slope stabilization and protective barrier works are yet to be completed.
Also Read: Wayanad Kalladi Landslide Leaves Three Dead Five Missing
Authorities warned that continued heavy rainfall could worsen the situation if preventive measures are not completed quickly.
Traffic Continues Through Alternate Lane on NH-75
Despite the increased landslide risk, officials clarified that there is no immediate disruption to vehicular movement on Shiradi Ghat.
Traffic is currently being diverted through the alternate carriageway, allowing vehicles to pass safely while the affected section remains under constant monitoring. The National Highways Authority and local police are jointly assessing the condition of the road and surrounding slopes.
Officials said the situation could change rapidly if rainfall intensifies over the coming days.
Sakleshpur Administration Bans Tourist Entry
In view of the continuing heavy rains, rising river and stream levels, and the possibility of landslides, the Sakleshpur Taluk Magistrate and Tahsildar issued an official order on July 7 imposing strict restrictions across the taluk.
Under the order, tourists and members of the public are prohibited from visiting:
- Waterfalls
- Rivers
- Streams
- Reservoirs
- Hilly areas
- Trekking routes
- Landslide-prone locations
The restrictions will remain in force until further orders to prevent accidents during the ongoing monsoon season.
Authorities urged residents and tourists to strictly follow the restrictions and avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable locations.
Violators Face Legal Action
The administration has warned that entering restricted areas or permitting others to do so will attract legal action.
Officials stated that violators may be booked under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), as the restrictions have been imposed in the interest of public safety.
The district administration emphasised that the precautionary measures are intended to minimise risks as weather conditions remain unpredictable.
Homestays and Resorts Directed to Suspend Trekking Activities
The Sakleshpur administration has also issued specific directions to homestay operators and resort owners across the taluk.
They have been instructed not to organise trekking activities or adventure trips for tourists until the restrictions are lifted.
Officials warned that if any untoward incident occurs due to violations of the order, the owners concerned would be held directly responsible under applicable laws.
Authorities Continue Close Monitoring
With heavy monsoon showers expected to continue in parts of Hassan district, officials are maintaining round-the-clock surveillance of vulnerable stretches along Shiradi Ghat.
Emergency teams remain on alert, while highway authorities continue to monitor soil movement, drainage conditions and slope stability near Doddathappu. Motorists travelling through NH-75 have been advised to exercise caution, follow traffic advisories and cooperate with authorities in the interest of safety.
