*Expedite Development Works to Transform Jog Falls into a Year-Round Tourism Destination: Minister K.J.George*

Pragativahini News: Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George* has directed officials to expedite ongoing development works at Jog Falls and fast-track the necessary technical studies and statutory approvals to transform the iconic waterfall into an all-season tourism destination.

Chairing a review meeting at the Tourism Department’s office in Energy Bhavan on Wednesday, the Minister reviewed the progress of infrastructure development at Jog Falls and the proposal to maintain water flow at the waterfall for designated periods throughout the year, extending its appeal beyond the monsoon season.

The Minister directed officials to undertake a comprehensive feasibility assessment of the proposed system to pump water to the upper reaches of the falls. The study should examine the volume of water required, pumping capacity, electricity consumption, operational expenditure and long-term financial viability.

He also instructed officials to expedite the necessary approvals involving Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) and the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC).

Considering the challenges associated with power availability during nighttime operations, the Minister sought a technical assessment of alternative energy solutions, including solar power and pumped-storage systems, along with their operational and financial implications.

“Jog Falls is one of Karnataka’s most iconic tourism attractions, and its potential should not remain confined to the monsoon season. Our objective is to develop it into a destination that attracts visitors throughout the year. The proposal to maintain water flow during designated hours must be taken forward after carefully assessing its technical feasibility, electricity costs and safety requirements. There should be no unnecessary delay in securing the required approvals. A meeting will shortly be convened under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar to take a final decision on the proposal,” Minister K.J. George said.

Visitor Safety and Timely Completion of Works

Emphasising the importance of visitor management, the Minister directed officials to examine arrangements for regulated viewing of the waterfall during designated morning and evening hours. He also stressed strict compliance with safety and access restrictions, particularly after 5 PM or 6 PM, as determined by the authorities.

The Minister further instructed officials to expedite the required No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and clearances from the Archaeology Department and other relevant agencies.

He directed the Jog Management Authority and Jungle Lodges & Resorts (JLR) to work in close coordination with the departments concerned to ensure that ongoing development works are completed within the stipulated timelines.

Tourism Secretary Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS, said the proposed year-round development of Jog Falls would require an integrated approach covering infrastructure, water management, energy requirements and visitor safety.

“Developing Jog Falls as an all-season tourism destination requires coordinated planning across multiple agencies. Based on the technical and financial feasibility of the proposed water-flow system, we will facilitate coordination among KPCL, the Jog Management Authority, JLR and other departments to secure the necessary approvals. Our focus will be on implementing the project in a phased and sustainable manner while ensuring a safe and enhanced visitor experience,” he said.

Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, Gaurav Gupta; Managing Director of KPCL, Rajendra Cholan; Managing Director of KSTDC, Shivaprasad P.R.; and senior officials from the Energy and Tourism Departments attended the meeting.