Despite warnings, tourists continue to flout river safety norms in Kullu, Manali

The issue has once again come under the spotlight following a recent incident at Manikaran in Kullu district, where three members of a family slipped into the Parbati river while taking selfies near the riverbank. The trio was swept away by the strong current for a short distance before alert passersby managed to rescue them after a strenuous effort, averting what could have been a major tragedy.

The incident has renewed concerns over tourist safety in a region that has witnessed several fatal river-related accidents over the years. One of the deadliest tragedies occurred on June 8, 2014, near Thalout in Mandi district, when 25 engineering students from Hyderabad and a tour operator were washed away by a sudden surge in the Beas. The group had reportedly been standing on boulders in the riverbed when water levels rose unexpectedly, leaving them with little time to escape.

Several similar incidents have been reported in Kullu district in the past, where tourists lost their lives after being caught unaware by sudden increases in water levels caused by upstream water releases, glacial melt and changing weather conditions. Authorities say these factors make riverbanks and riverbeds highly unpredictable and unsafe, even when water appears calm.

A recent visit along the Kullu-Manali stretch revealed that risky behaviour continues unabated. At multiple locations between Kullu and Manali, tourists were seen entering both shallow and deep sections of the Beas, standing on slippery rocks, splashing in the water and posing for photographs and videos. Families and groups were observed ignoring warning signs and official advisories, exposing themselves to serious danger.

Following the Manikaran incident, Kullu DC Anurag Chander has directed authorities to strengthen safety measures at vulnerable river stretches. Speaking to The Tribune, he said the administration has been regularly issuing advisories urging tourists to maintain a safe distance from rivers due to unpredictable water flow and hidden hazards.

He noted that despite sustained awareness campaigns, many visitors continue to disregard safety instructions. Consequently, police authorities have been asked to intensify surveillance along the Kullu-Manali and Bhuntar-Manikaran corridors. Special teams have been deployed to monitor riverbanks and prevent tourists from entering unsafe or restricted areas.

During inspections conducted on Wednesday, officials found several tourists approaching dangerously close to the Beas at different points between Kullu and Manali. They were immediately moved away from the riverbanks and informed about the risks involved.

The DC also appealed to hotel operators and tourism stakeholders to educate guests about river safety. He emphasised that while riverfronts remain a major attraction, their beauty often conceals powerful and potentially deadly currents.

The administration has reiterated that riverbanks are not safe recreational zones and warned that stricter enforcement measures may be introduced if violations continue. The authorities maintain that preventing further loss of life remains a priority as the tourist season gathers momentum in the region.