Retention wall at Nandi Hills to prevent accidents

Lack of retention wall at the famous viewpoint had claimed many a life.

Recently, software engineers Saurav and Sharat died after falling from the hills. They were said to be taking photographs despite being warned about the absence of a retention wall.

Tipu Sultan had built the retention wall at the hills to check infiltrators around the Nandi Hills. But there was no such wall around 800 metres since Tipu believed enemies cannot enter the fort from the stretch. The Tipu Drop is in this stretch which attracts many tourists.

But the increasing accidents at the stretch have necessitated a retention wall.

The Horticulture Department and Suvarna Karnataka Udyanavanagala Prathishtana are jointly building a retention wall at a cost of Rs 50 lakh and the work is expected to be completed in two months.

Nandi Hills Special Officer Mahantesh Murgodu told Deccan Herald that tourists thronged the Hills to catch some picturisque views from certain points like the Tipu Drop. Carried away by the beauty of the spot, many risk their lives — unmindful of the absence of a retention wall — to take photographs. “It is also said that few chose the spot to end their lives,” he added.

The 450-metre wall will be built from Mayura Hotel to Tipu Drop and will be raised up to 5 ft. This would not hinder tourists from enjoying the scenic view from the hill, he added.

To ensure safety of tourists, the police are keeping a constant vigil on miscreants. Strict action will be initiated against them, said Chikkaballapur Rural Police Sub-inspector Munireddy.