Once stronghold of maoists, Karregutalu to become accessible as road nears completion

With the construction of a 29-km road through the forested regions of Mulugu district nearing completion, the scenic Karreguttalu Hills (KGH), once a stronghold of the CPI (Maoists) on the Telangana–Chhattisgarh border, are set to become accessible to the general public as well as tourists soon.

15 to 20 peaks with waterfalls, caves and narrow valleys

The Karreguttalu (Black hills) Hill range comprises a chain of hills and valleys along the inter-State border. Known for its scenic landscape, the range includes 15 to 20 peaks with waterfalls, caves and narrow valleys. Its difficult terrain has historically limited access even for local residents.

Only about 1.5 km remains to be laid

Speaking to The Hindu over the phone, Mulugu Superintendent of Police (SP) Sudhir Ramnath Kekan said that only about 1.5 km of the stretch remains to be completed within Telangana. He said that a team comprising CRPF Additional Director General Ravideep Singh Sahi, Hyderabad Range DIG Anil Kumar, and himself inspected the ongoing works on Thursday (May 14, 2026), which have now reached the Tadapala hills.

The road being laid through forested regions of Mulugu district in Telangana to Karregutalu Hills
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BY ARRANGEMENT

Landmines had to be cleared

According to officials, the road construction from Morumuru to Tadapala hills marks a significant achievement, particularly given the challenges posed by the terrain and the need to clear landmines earlier planted by maoists.

The security forces killed 31 Maoists in the Karreguttalu Hills between April 21 and May 11, 2025. Following the operation, the area was declared Naxal-free.

CRPF ADG (Southern Zone) Ravdeep Singh Sethi, along with other police officials, including Mulugu SP Sudhir R. Kekan, inspecting road works in Mulugu district on Thursday.
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By Arrangement

Subsequently, the Telangana and Chhattisgarh governments, with support from the Centre, initiated measures to ensure the region remains free of extremist activity while promoting its tourism potential. “With the road construction almost complete, we are preparing to inaugurate it and open it to the public and tourists soon,” Mr. Kekan said. He added that road works on the Chhattisgarh side are also progressing.

Beneficial to local communities

The road is expected to benefit local communities, particularly Gotti Koya tribals, by improving access to transportation, healthcare, education and emergency services.

In a related development a few weeks ago, former Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy laid the foundation stone for a police outpost at Pamunuru village in Venkatapuram mandal in April 2026. The move was aimed at strengthening security and enhancing the State’s presence in the tribal belt, considering the need for strategic control over the region to ensure long-term security.

‘Ooty-like’ climate

A senior forest official noted that the region offers an “Ooty-like” climate during summer and is rich in natural features such as dense forests, streams and rolling hills. He said the area has potential for adventure tourism, including caving and rock climbing, subject to safety measures.

Officials also said that improved connectivity, along with the proximity to the popular Bogatha waterfall in Wazeedu mandal, could help KGH emerge as a key tourist destination.

The road being laid through forested regions of Mulugu district in Telangana to Karregutalu Hills
| Video Credit:
BY ARRANGEMENT