The Karnataka government has suspended all safari operations at Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves following three fatal tiger attacks in just 15 days. The decision, announced by the state’s forest department, also includes a statewide ban on trekking in areas prone to human–wildlife conflict.
The move came after a 35-year-old farmer was killed by a tiger near Hale Heggodilu in Mysuru district on Friday, close to the Moleyur range of Bandipur. This marks the third fatality along the reserve’s boundary in less than a month, sparking concern among local residents.
All safaris have been halted with immediate effect, and staff have been reassigned to assist in an ongoing tiger-tracking and rescue operation in the Moleyur forest area. The ban on trekking extends to conflict-sensitive regions in Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga districts, aimed at ensuring public safety and reducing disturbance to wildlife.
Authorities have intensified ground operations to locate and capture the tiger suspected of multiple attacks, with senior officials deployed on-site to oversee the situation. Safaris will remain suspended until further notice.
