Karnataka has decided to fully reopen jungle safaris at Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves, following the recommendations of a Technical Committee that scientifically assessed the parks’ carrying capacity. The state government has accepted the committee’s findings and directed that safaris operate in a regulated manner accordingly.
Safari operations had been suspended since November 2025, following protests from residents over rising incidents of human-animal conflict. A committee of scientists and wildlife experts was subsequently formed to study the issue, leading to a phased, restricted resumption of safaris in February this year.
With the committee’s final report now submitted, the government has moved to fully restore operations at both reserves. Officials reiterated the state’s commitment to an eco-tourism model that balances ecological integrity with local livelihoods, framing Karnataka’s approach as one that generates employment while ensuring tourism contributes positively to conservation outcomes.
