In response to growing concerns over unregulated tourism and recent human-tiger conflicts, the Karnataka government has reduced the number of daily safari trips in both Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves by one. The directive, issued by Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, took effect on October 28.
The decision follows reports of safari vehicles operating beyond permitted hours, disturbing wildlife and prompting complaints from nearby farmers. The Minister noted that while tourism plays an important role in supporting livelihoods and raising awareness about forest conservation, it must not come at the cost of ecological balance or community safety.
Officials emphasized that the move aims to restore harmony between wildlife conservation and local interests, ensuring that visitor activities remain sustainable.
In a related development, forest personnel captured an eight- to nine-year-old tigress near Anjanapura in Nanjangud taluk the same evening. Authorities described the animal as “problematic” and confirmed that it has been relocated to the Koorgalli Wildlife Rescue Centre near Mysuru for treatment.
