Chennai, Nov 30 (LatestNewsX) — Concerns are mounting in Hogenakkal as regular coracle operators caution that an increasing number of unlicensed operators are ignoring safety rules and endangering tourists. They have called on the Dharmapuri district administration to act swiftly and stop people who aren’t registered from running tours on the Cauvery. Hogenakkal has long attracted visitors, but its waters have also been the scene of tragedy.
When six people perished in a 2015 coracle capsizing, authorities stepped up safety measures, mandating operator registration, marking designated zones, and requiring life jackets for every passenger. For several years those rules kept tourism organized and safe.
Now, according to registered operators, a wave of unlicensed operators has begun ferrying tourists without permission, often steering them into risky sections of the river. There are roughly 428 licensed coracle operators in Hogenakkal, all of whom must adhere to the administrative safety standards. Failure to use life jackets or to stay within the approved areas can trigger immediate revocation of licences and penalties.
Operators say they’re routinely checked by local coracle committees and the Block Development Office to ensure compliance, but the unregistered operators seem to be sidestepping all of that oversight. The sanctioned operators claim that these rogue operators are inexperienced and regularly throw tourists into perilous stretches, such as the deep, fast-flowing parts near Periyapaani and at the convergence of the five rivers – spots notorious for strong currents and serious crash risk.
They also allegedly overcharge, offering trips beyond the official routes, for example on the Chinnar–Kothikal–Manalmedu circuit where a lawful round‑trip for five people is capped at Rs 1,500.
Local residents echo these worries, explaining that any incident not only harms the victims but also tarnishes the community’s reputation and threatens livelihoods. They demand that the administration enforce the set operational zones, post warning boards for visitors, and increase monitoring to prevent abuse and accidents.
Officials at the Pennagaram Block Development Office noted that they had not yet received formal complaints, but assured that they would consult with local operators and take steps to safeguard tourists.
With tourist numbers expected to climb in the coming months, registered operators stress that prompt administrative intervention is essential to avert avoidable tragedies and restore order to Hogenakkal’s coracle business.
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