Following reports in the media about the illegal tourism activities carried out by private estate lessees in Valparai, the ATR Field Director Srinivas R. Reddy today inspected the area.

The Covai Post, on July 19, reported the mishandling by estate lessees of private forest lands, by letting tourists to stay and tour the area, which is a blatant violation of the Private Forest Act. The report had also said that the estate lessees, who were given the lease of the lands for 99 years by the then British Government, had erected illegal constructions, which again was a violation.

Tourists who visit the estates are reportedly allowed to consume liquor, out in the open at the estates, and are taken for night safaris at Rs.3000 each. The report explained how the illegal tourism harmed the pristine nature of the environment, which is covered by evergreen shola forests.

On Friday, a team headed by Field Director Srinivas R. Reddy had visited the estates and cross-checked on the reported violations.

Valparai, which is a part of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, is home to large and small mammals including tigers, gaurs, elephants, mongoose, and various birds.