JOIN US It was by 4.30 pm on Saturday, the three dignitaries arrived at K K R river near Birunani and readied for rafting by wearing life jackets.
They travelled in the river for hour covering four kilometres length. Hundreds of spectators had gathered near the river specially to witness this hair-raising event.
“This is a new experience for me. The natural beauty of Kodagu is exactly meant for sports like this,” said Jagadish Shetter at the end of his memorable journey.
Speaking on the occasion, Goolihatti Chandrashekhar said rafting facilities would be developed in various tourist places of the State. More emphasis will be given to Kodagu in this direction, he announced.
“The youth here are courageous. Encouraging rafting is just like encouraging their valour,” he reiterated.
Prior to this, the seer of Chitradurga Murugha Mutt created a new history by taking part in the river rafting along with the members of General Thimmaiah Adventure Academy. Striking a difference from his counterparts, the seer enjoyed the adventurous sports amidst the enchanting greenery.
Government will give emphasis to adventure sports, said Minister for Youth Service and Sports Goolihatti Shekhar. Speaking after inaugurating rafting facility organised by sports department and General Thimmaiah Adventure Academy on Sunday, he said to give emphasis to rafting, rock wall climbing and parasailing. He said that government had given a sum of Rs 7 lakh to General Thimmaiah Adventure Academy last year.
Tenders have been invited to purchase materials meant for adventurous sports. The department has decided to organised water sports in rivers and tanks in the future. It has been decided to organise water sports in Kali, Vanivilasa sagara, he added.
Assembly Speaker Jagadeesh Shettar, Sports department Joint Director Kantharak, R L Patil, Srinivasgowda and others were present.