Residents of villages surrounding the scenic Rani Jhari tourist spot in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru district have strongly opposed a new entry fee proposed by the forest department. The locals argue that charging visitors is unjust when basic facilities like proper roads, drinking water, and sanitation remain severely inadequate.
Villagers Voice Their Opposition
The forest department's plan to introduce an entry fee of Rs 30 per person for visiting Rani Jhari in Mudigere taluk has sparked significant backlash. Villagers staged a protest at the site, accusing the authorities of attempting to collect money without fulfilling their responsibility to provide essential infrastructure. Despite a heavy inflow of tourists to the popular destination, the area continues to suffer from a lack of development.
One local resident, Udaya, highlighted the contradiction in the government's approach. He pointed out that while the government provides schemes like free bus travel and electricity, it now wants to charge people to enjoy natural beauty. "What is the problem with allowing tourists to enjoy the beautiful nature for free?" he questioned, echoing the sentiment of many in the community.
Accusations of Neglect and a Call for Action
The protesting villagers have made serious allegations against the forest department. They claim the move is less about conservation or welfare and more about "looting money from the people." Their primary demand is clear: authorities must first address the glaring infrastructure gaps before considering any form of tourist levy.
The community has issued a stern warning, stating they will launch a larger, more intense protest if the department officials fail to review and reconsider their decision. Their stance is rooted in the principle that access to public natural resources should not be monetized without corresponding improvements in public facilities and services.
Forest Department's Response
When confronted with the opposition, a forest department officer stated that they were merely "working as per the orders of the higher-ups." The officer acknowledged the villagers' concerns and assured that the matter of their opposition would be brought to the notice of senior officials for their consideration. This indicates that the proposal may still be under review, pending further discussion with the local stakeholders.
The standoff at Rani Jhari underscores a common tension in developing tourist destinations across India: the balance between generating revenue for maintenance and ensuring equitable access and development for local communities who bear the impact of tourism.
