All raft operators in Dubare and Barapole must renew licenses and obtain fitness certificates before commencing water adventure activities, according to new regulations passed during a district committee meeting chaired by DC Venkat Raja and attended by MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda.
Key safety enhancements were approved, including ticket counter shelters, safety railings, toilets, CCTV, changing rooms for guides, and information boards. Dr. Gowda recommended mandatory skill certification through the General Thimmaiah National Adventure Academy (JETNA) and police verification for guides. Life jackets, uniforms, and skill tests will now be compulsory.
Deputy Director Anita Bhaskar reported that 75 rafts are operational in Dubare and 24 in Barapole. Applications for kayaking under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29 are under review.
Nine ST youth beneficiaries received Rs 2 lakh each under the Integrated Tribal Development Project to purchase rafting equipment. Licensing discussions are ongoing pending court directives.
