Why in news?
Karnataka’s Environment Minister directed wildlife authorities to discontinue the final evening safari at Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Farmers and conservationists had complained that late‑hour safaris disturbed wildlife and increased incidents of animals straying into nearby villages.
About Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Bandipur in Karnataka was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1973 under Project Tiger and later upgraded to a national park. Covering about 874 square kilometres, it lies at the tri‑junction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve along with Nagarahole, Mudumalai and Wayanad reserves. The park supports healthy populations of tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, dholes and many bird species.
Reason for limiting safaris
- Disturbance to wildlife: Safari vehicles driving through the forest at dusk cause stress to animals returning to feeding or resting areas. Bright headlights and engine noise may disrupt natural behaviours.
- Human–wildlife conflict: Farmers living around the reserve reported that elephants and deer driven away by late safaris damaged crops. Reducing the number of trips could allow animals to remain inside the forest after dark.
- Balancing tourism and conservation: Safaris generate revenue and awareness but must be regulated to ensure long‑term ecological health. By cancelling the last trip, authorities aim to strike a better balance between visitor experience and animal welfare.
Conservation significance
Bandipur and neighbouring reserves harbour one of the largest contiguous tiger habitats in the world. Careful management of tourism, fire control, anti‑poaching and community engagement is essential to safeguard these landscapes. Adjusting safari timings is a small but important step toward reducing pressure on wildlife and mitigating conflict with local people.
Source: Daijiworld