Night Entry Banned on Udupi’s Islands as District Cracks Down on Coastal Misuse

Udupi | June 13, 2025
By , Coastal Affairs Correspondent

In a bold and unprecedented move to ensure coastal security and public welfare, Udupi district administration has implemented a blanket night-time entry ban on all 50 islands under its jurisdiction, effective immediately. The decision, announced by Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari, aims to clamp down on a rising wave of unlawful nocturnal activity while safeguarding tourists and locals alike.

From 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, no individual or vessel will be permitted to access any island, regardless of purpose. The order comes in the wake of increasing concerns over unauthorized parties, suspected smuggling activity, and unregulated tourism practices reported across the coastal belt in recent months.

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The Crackdown Begins

The new directive, issued under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, empowers the district police and coastal security to enforce curfew-like conditions on all maritime entry points, including private jetties, local fishing docks, and tourist ferry terminals.

“We have observed growing misuse of island spaces during late hours,” said Dr. Vidyakumari during a press briefing held at the District Collectorate. “This includes everything from loud parties that disturb marine wildlife to illegal gatherings and even activities suspected to be linked to contraband trade.”

According to district records, at least seven incidents of illegal night entry onto islands were recorded between March and May 2025 alone. Some of these involved rave-like gatherings, noise complaints from nearby coastal villages, and unlicensed transport operators exploiting tourists.

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Tourism Caught Off-Guard

Udupi, renowned for its pristine coastlines and hidden islets like St. Mary’s Island, Kudru, and Mannapalla, has seen a tourism boom in recent years — especially among weekend backpackers and vloggers seeking “undiscovered” locations. The new regulation has sparked mixed reactions from tourism operators.

“Most tourists return before sunset anyway, but this move could spook potential visitors,” said Rahul Kamath, who runs a kayaking and island camping business from Malpe. “We’re hoping authorities issue special permits for eco-tourism and guided night stays under regulation.”

However, environmentalists welcomed the decision.

“These islands are fragile ecosystems — night access disturbs nesting turtles, migratory birds, and coral habitats,” said Dr. Veena D'Souza, a marine biologist with the Coastal Ecology Foundation.

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What the Order Says

Here’s a breakdown of the key points in the district administration’s directive:

• Timeframe: Daily ban from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM

• Applies to: All 50 registered islands within Udupi district, including both inhabited and uninhabited islands

• Exceptions: Emergency response teams, authorized research bodies, and naval patrols with pre-approval

• Penalties: Violators may face fines, vessel impoundment, or legal action under the IPC and Environmental Protection Act

• Monitoring: Use of drone surveillance, coastal police patrols, and GPS tracking of licensed boats

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A Look at Udupi’s Island Culture

The decision marks a turning point for a district celebrated not just for its temples and dosas, but for a rich island culture steeped in history and biodiversity. Some of Udupi’s lesser-known islands are home to ancient shrines, fishing hamlets, and rare coconut plantations, making them popular among cultural tourists and researchers.

St. Mary’s Island, for instance, is a geologically protected site known for its volcanic basalt rock formations — and one of the most Instagrammed spots in Karnataka.

Unfortunately, its fame also brought overcrowding, littering, and unauthorized night camping, prompting repeated warnings from the Forest Department in 2024.

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Public Reaction: Safety vs. Freedom

Local residents living near popular ferry points welcomed the move.

“We’ve heard loud music blaring from the sea at midnight. It disturbs our sleep, our prayers, our livelihood,” said Ramakrishna Nayak, a fisherman from Kodi village.

But on social media, some young locals expressed frustration.

“Not all of us are partying or doing illegal stuff. Some just want to stargaze or shoot films. Why not regulate, instead of ban?” asked a Twitter user using the hashtag #SaveUdupiIslands.

Officials, however, remain firm on enforcement, at least until the monsoon season ends and a more nuanced tourism policy can be drafted.

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The Bigger Picture: A Coastal Wake-Up Call

This development isn’t isolated. Coastal districts like Karwar, Ratnagiri, and even Goa have recently introduced similar curbs following growing challenges in managing maritime tourism.

Analysts suggest that the Udupi order could set a precedent for pan-Karnataka coastal regulation, especially as India gears up for international tourism in the post-pandemic era.

“It’s a necessary pause to reassess our relationship with the sea,” said Prof. Leena Shenoy, an urban planner specializing in coastal resilience. “Unfettered access often leads to irreversible damage.”

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What’s Next?

The Deputy Commissioner’s office confirmed that a review meeting is scheduled for July, where tourism stakeholders and local Panchayats will propose amendments — including regulated night safaris, research passes, and eco-tourism licenses.

Until then, residents and tourists are advised to adhere strictly to the night ban.

“The ocean is generous. But it also needs rest,” said Dr. Vidyakumari in her closing remark — a sentiment now echoed across Udupi’s shores.

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For Travel Operators & Tourists:

• Check for updated island visit hours on udupi.nic.in

• Register your vessel and operator ID before travel

• Dispose of waste responsibly — violators will be penalized

• Report illegal activity via the Coastal Watch Helpline: 1800-425-733