Mid-Day Opinion: Please put your life before likes, Mumbai!

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Insta fame is the name of the game in a world and at a time when clicks count more than common sense or caution. The hunt for the perfect Instagram reel is turning into a conservation nightmare at Vihar Lake said our report. Forest Department officials reported illegal movement, with a sharp rise in people entering restricted areas and, in some cases, the lake itself, to shoot videos.

As the rains have arrived, the vistas have become lush and invitingly green. This attracts influencers, YouTubers and photographers. Many ignore warning boards and venture into prohibited forest patches for dramatic shots, putting themselves and wildlife at risk.

Even more than these transgressions, officials are most worried that some visitors have been filming right into the lake. This without a care in the world about it being home to Indian marsh crocodiles (muggers) and also the site of drownings.

There are five big concerns for officials like trespassing into protected forest areas, entering crocodile-inhabited waters, disturbing wildlife, increasing drowning risk and encouraging copycat visits through social media.

We must see an uptick in patrolling around the lake. If there is a manpower shortage, cameras can be installed. Signage which is prominent through the forest trail and which can be read even in the late evening is a must. This is because people should not and cannot feign ignorance about forest rules and access to certain areas.

Though mindful about wildlife disturbance, making announcements about rule flouting and consequences over a broadcasting system can also be considered. In the end, people need to have common sense and put life before likes.