JOIN USMallalli falls amidst green cover
Nestled amidst lush greenery under Bettadalli Gram Panchayat limits, the picturesque Mallali waterfalls is in its full glory, thanks to copious rainfall in the catchment area.
Despite immense tourism potential, lack of basic amenities has hidden it from many nature lovers. There is no proper road connectivity. Tourists trek to Pushpagiri via Shanthalli from Somwarpet, which is 22 km away. Mallalli waterfalls is situated three kilometre from Hanchinahalli towards Pushpagiri.
Kumaradhara river
Water from Kumaradhara river cascades down the hillock from a height of 150 feet to create the waterfalls. Hundreds of tourists the falls. However, there are no safety measures in place. There is no sign board to warn visitors about the danger involved in getting into the water. Tourists have to walk two kilometre after parking their vehicles, but there is no one to ensure safety of either tourists or the vehicles.
Bettadalli GP has been collecting entry fee from tourists, but it has failed to develop the road leading to the waterfalls. Though plans have been on paper for the development of Mallalli waterfalls, the tourism department is yet to take any steps. The villagers allege that funds released for the development of the road has been misused. The demand for laying steps near the waterfalls has fallen on deaf ears. The assurances for a hanging bridge and cable car are only a pipe dream.
The Karnataka Power Corporation had conducted a survey here in the past to generate electricity.
Though the corporation opened an office, the proposal has been put on back burner due to opposition from villagers. Realising the fact that the villages under Bettadalli GP do not have electricity connections, the SKDRDP had planned to set up a mini hydel power project two years ago. Now, a private firm in Somwarpet has come forward to set up an environment-friendly power generating unit.
Of late, there is some negative development. Some youth visit the waterfalls only to make merry. They pollute the area by dumping bottles and food packets. The authorities concerned should take steps to conserve the serenity of the place.