Koraput,: The district administration has imposed a ban on tourists staying overnight at Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha. As per the new order, no tourist will be allowed to remain in Deomali from 8 PM to 5 AM. However, tourists with prior bookings in government-approved eco-cottages are exempted from this restriction.
This step follows concerns raised by renowned filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli, who highlighted environmental degradation in the area due to scattered plastic, liquor bottles, litter, and general waste. He had advised tourists to carry bags and act responsibly during their visits.
The administration has strictly prohibited any individual or group from spending the night in the hilltop area without permission. Tourists have been instructed to refrain from using single-use plastic. Violators will be penalized under the Solid Waste Management Rules 2016.
All tourists must dispose of their waste in designated dustbins. Local tour operators and vendors have been directed to ensure proper disposal of waste and maintain cleanliness standards.
The order also mandates strict adherence to all guidelines issued by the Pottangi Block Administration and other local authorities. Anyone found violating these directives will be punished under Section 15 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986, Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and other applicable laws.
District Collector V. Keerthi Vasan stated that police officials, sub-divisional magistrates, block development officers, tehsildars, and forest officers from Pottangi and Kotia have been instructed to enforce these rules.
This order will remain effective for the next 60 days and aims to both promote eco-tourism and ensure public safety.
