Cauvery goes dry, tourist footfall dips in Hogenakkal falls

With River Cauvery going almost dry, the popular Hogenakkal falls in Kollegal taluk, Chamarajanagar district, which used to attract hordes of people has lost its charm and tourists.

It is said, that the River Cauvery has gone dry to this extent at Hogenakkal for the first time in the last 60 years. Here, the river cascades from a height of 70 feet, turning it into a major tourism spot in the district. It is also referred to as the ‘Niagara Falls of India’ and is known for its medicinal value baths and boat rides.

The visitors, who come hoping for a ride in coracles, are returning disappointed as the River Cauvery has narrowed down and the falls has gone completely dry. Hundreds of families, which were dependent on the falls for a living are affected as the tourist inflow has turned almost nil this summer.

Hogenakkal falls, comprising more than 50 small falls, is situated 48-km from Male Mahadeshwara Hill, and is a major tourist attraction of the district. It has derived its name ‘Hogenakkal’ from two Kannada words ‘Hoge’ and ‘Kal’. When the waterfalls on the rocks, it appears as if hoge (smoke) is formed on top of the kal (rock) because of the force of the water. The region, which is always abuzz with activities due to constant stream of tourists has been deserted this year.

Speaking to DH, a resident said, he has never seen the River Cauvery narrowing down to such an extent in the past five decades. The water, which used to fall from 70 feet height has reduced to just 20 feet due to insufficient rains in Wayanad and Kodagu catchment areas. The rocks, which used to shine due to constant flow of water have lost their lustre. The trees and plants around the falls too have dried, he said.

More than 70 people eke out a living by ferrying people in coracles and boats across the river. Now, not more than10 families visit the spot and the poor turnout has affected their business. The locals, who were hoping for a large turnout this summer, have been disappointed.