The Rajasthan High Court has prohibited night safaris and the use of drones at Jawai Leopard Reserve in Pali district, directing that all safari and wildlife-spotting activity be restricted to the hours of 6 am to 7 pm. The order was issued by a bench comprising Justices Sandeep Shah and Pushpendra Singh Bhati, while hearing a public interest litigation filed by local resident Apoorva Agrawat.
The court cited unregulated tourism activity as a source of stress and disturbance to wildlife, particularly during dusk hours. In addition to the time restrictions, authorities have been directed to prohibit the use of torchlights, searchlights, spotlights and drones for locating or observing animals, because such practices interfere with natural behaviour and habitats. The restrictions align with existing norms at Ranthambore National Park.
The bench also directed that any misconduct by safari operators or hospitality personnel causing harassment to wildlife be promptly reported and dealt with under applicable law.
Jawai is one of Rajasthan’s most distinctive wildlife destinations, known for its resident leopard population and dramatic granite landscape. For travel advisors, itineraries to the reserve will need to be planned within the prescribed daytime window going forward.
