Kohima, September 29: The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) has announced new safety regulations for trekkers visiting Dzükou Valley, effective October 1, 2025. Under the new rules, it will be mandatory for all visitors to be accompanied by SAYO-registered local guides.
Additionally, trekking to and from Dzükou Valley will be strictly prohibited after 3:00 PM. SAYO leaders said the measures were introduced following repeated incidents of trekkers losing their way or getting stranded without guides, which often led to late-night or early morning rescue operations.
According to the releaseissued by SAYO president Zasitsolie Beio and general secretary Keneisel Tetso, “On multiple occasions, SAYO volunteers have had to carry out rescue operations late at night or in the early morning incurring considerable expense and risk.”
Defaulters will face penalties under the prescribed rules, and SAYO clarified it will not be held liable for risks incurred by those ignoring the guidelines. Visitors have been urged to extend full cooperation in adhering to the new safety measures.
