Illegal trekking, ‘hidden spot’ tourism raise alarm in Karnataka's Western Ghats

The article highlights growing concerns among residents and environmentalists in Karnataka's Western Ghats (Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru) over illegal trekking and commercial tourism. Private groups are promoting 'hidden spots' on social media, leading to an influx of tourists in ecologically fragile areas. This unregulated activity results in plastic waste, pollution of water sources, disturbance to wildlife, and potential damage to endemic flora like Neelakurinji. The Forest Department has intensified action against unauthorized commercial trekking, and locals are urging stricter regulation to protect the sensitive ecosystem.