Mysuru: A 300-metre-long chain-mesh fencing will be installed along Right Bank wall of Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam to prevent tourists from straying into the hazardous water release zones adjacent to reservoir.

The 93-year-old Dam, which draws thousands of visitors daily, has repeatedly faced criticism for its inadequate and sloppy safety measures. One of the most pressing concerns is the absence of proper fencing, which has resulted in tourists casually walking — and often sitting — on the precarious Right Bank wall that is over 90 years old.

This year, copious pre-monsoon rains in Kodagu’s catchment areas filled the reservoir to capacity well before the onset of the South West Monsoon. Consequently, the crest gates had to be opened earlier than usual, sending milky-white sheets of water cascading into the river below — a dramatic spectacle that has, in turn, drawn more visitors seeking close-up views.

Consequently, the crest gates had to be opened earlier than usual, sending milky-white sheets of water cascading into the river below — a dramatic spectacle that has, in turn, drawn more visitors seeking close-up views.

Dangerous behaviour

The frequent water releases have encouraged tourists to find unauthorised entry points, particularly along the path leading to the right bank low-level canal. Vehicles are routinely parked between the toll gate and the bridge, after which visitors — including families — trek down a mud track running alongside paddy fields to reach the canal, where there is a narrow concrete bridge.

This bridge that links one side of the canal to the other, however, is extremely dangerous. Barely one foot wide, it turns treacherously slippery during continuous rains and a single misstep can send someone plunging into the canal’s torrent, where water gushes out with immense force.

Adding to the risk, several visitors perch themselves on the Dam’s right bank wall itself to enjoy the panoramic view of cascading water. Here too, no protective barrier exists. While one side of the wall opens onto solid ground, the other drops steeply into a gorge where water is discharged.

“The breathtaking scenery has sparked a reckless selfie craze, with tourists leaning over edges or climbing narrow ledges to capture photos and videos,” said N. Naveen, a resident of Dattagalli in Mysuru.

Mandya DC intervenes

Alarmed by these escalating safety hazards, Mandya Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kumara took up the issue during a recent district monsoon meeting.

Later, a letter was written by the District Administration to the Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL) — the authority managing the KRS Dam — instructing them to take immediate measures to restrict tourist access to these danger zones and curb hazardous behaviour.

Confirming development, CNNL Assistant Executive Engineer Farooq Ahmed Abu told Star of Mysore that process to install the fencing is already underway.

“We have received the Deputy Commissioner’s letter and have forwarded a proposal to the office of the CNNL Managing Director. The fencing work will commence soon after financial approvals are secured,” he said.

As a precaution, water is now being released from crest gates located at the centre of the Dam. This ensures there is no water discharge from the sides, preventing tourists from accessing those points and indulging in dangerous viewing or risky behaviour.