Mandya, April 28 -- * Tourists risk lives, defy Balamuri ban

* Police cite staff crunch; Tahsildar to send teams to vacate tourists

Despite a ban imposed by the Mandya District Administration, hundreds of tourists are continuing to enter the Balamuri and Edamuri waterfalls along the River Cauvery in Srirangapatna, risking their lives amid rising drowning incidents.

This morning, around 150 to 200 tourists, including women and children, were seen at Balamuri, venturing into the waterfall formed by a concrete barrier across the river.

Many people stood directly under the cascading water on slippery rocks, ignoring safety concerns.

The spot, though hazardous, attracts visitors for its scenic beauty, particularly when water is released f...