The Times of India

After missing trekkers incidents, Karnataka bans overnight stays, caps group size; rolls out strict SOP - check new rules

Karnataka Forest Department has introduced a strict Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for eco-trails, hiking, and trekking following recent incidents. Violators will be blacklisted, and group sizes are capped at 10 trekkers with mandatory trained guides. Overnight stays are prohibited, and all treks must be completed within a single day.