Safari to Reopen in Nagarhole and Bandipur from December First Week?
Mysuru: Following a tragic series of man-animal conflicts that resulted in the loss of three lives in a month, the Karnataka Forest Department had temporarily closed safari operations in the Nagarhole and Bandipur wildlife sanctuaries.
However, this decision is set to be reversed as thousands of families dependent on the tourism industry and the state government’s revenue are facing significant economic losses.
The state’s Travel Agents Association had already approached the Chief Minister and Forest Minister, Eshwar Khandre, urging them to resume safaris. Responding positively to their requests, Minister Khandre has now indicated that safaris in both sanctuaries may be restarted from the first week of December.
Impact of Safari Closure
Both Nagarhole and Bandipur are renowned for their dense forests and rich wildlife, including a high population of tigers, elephants, and leopards. For the past 15 days, these popular wildlife hotspots have been devoid of tourists.
The closure of safaris has affected not only the local tourism industry but also the economy of thousands of families who rely on the inflow of tourists. The sanctuaries, which previously attracted visitors from all over India and abroad, used to generate daily revenues of Rs. 3 lakh, with up to Rs. 8 to 10 lakh on weekends.
With safaris closed, the tourism revenue has come to a halt, resulting in financial difficulties for several families and businesses. Additionally, safari vehicles and buses have been left idle, accumulating dust and rust.
Rising Human-Wildlife Conflicts
The recent rise in tiger attacks on farmers in the Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts has led to the temporary suspension of safaris. In response to these incidents, Minister Khandre had directed that safari staff be reassigned to capture the tigers involved in the attacks and raise awareness among the public.
However, according to forest officials, human-animal conflicts are part of the natural cycle. Older tigers, which lose their hunting abilities, may turn to easier prey, including humans, leading to such tragic incidents. Despite this, officials stress that safaris help monitor and control such situations by providing a structured presence in the sanctuaries.
A Critical Decision for Families Dependent on Tourism
A senior official from Nagarhole remarked that reopening the safari is essential, not just for tourism but also for the livelihoods of many local families who depend on it. The reopening is expected to restore a significant source of income and bring back the much-needed revenue to the region.
As the Forest Minister and senior officials are working towards a resolution, the reopening of safaris is now a hopeful prospect for thousands of tourism workers and local residents.
