Don't wreck the night trek

If you have an adventurous streak in you, then read on. Night treks have gained immense popularity as Bengaluru offers several hot spots for enthusiasts. But sadly now that might come to a grinding halt, as the local cops have begun to interfere. Here’s what some of young trekkers and trek organisers feel on the recent issues.

Entrepreneur and techie Neeraj Malve, who runs the Bangalore Mountaineering Club (BMC), shares, “Night treks are popular among trekkers for many reasons. One can avoid the sweltering heat and witness the stars on pollution free mountains and enjoy the scenic view of the beautiful sunrise from the mountain top. There are many responsible trekking clubs that ensure safety of their trek participants and also follow strict rules like no consumption of alcohol.

The groups are accompanied by certified mountaineers and first-aid practitioners.” Talking about the recent incident that took a group by surprise, he adds, “Cops from Kolar, Ramanagara district held few of our friend trekkers on Saturday who were trekking at Savandurga and Antargange. Some trekkers look for information online and try to venture into unknown terrain on their own without knowing the dangers associated.

There was also a case of mishap with a trekker who was under the influence of alcohol and some trekkers were beaten and robbed by a few local goons. But most good clubs ensure safety and security of the group and cops should validate the credentials of the group before they start imposing a ban. Night treks are a part of eco-tourism activity.”

An avid trekker and young telecom engineer from the city, Meenakshi Arya who has participated in many one or two night treks, states, “I prefer night treks as they are less exhausting due to good weather.  Since most reputed trek clubs adhere to safety precautions and have female coordinators, I don’t understand why anyone should trouble them. Many single girls like me opt for these treks. I never had any problems.”  Asmita Dorjee (30) who has participated in mountaineering courses and night treks, adding, “Last weekend we heard of some cops imposing a ban while a group was trekking. I see no reason why cops should play spoilsport.”