Post 2 months of ban, tiger safari may reopen in phases in Bandipur, Nagarahole | Bengaluru News

Bengaluru: Nearly two months after imposing a ban on wildlife safaris in Karnataka’s tiger reserves, the chief minister-headed Karnataka State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) Friday recommended a gradual reopening of safari operations in Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves. The board also resolved to constitute an expert committee to study the carrying capacity of safari vehicles in both tiger reserves.At the meeting chaired by CM Siddaramaiah, several SBWL members flagged the economic fallout of the suspension, particularly on communities dependent on tourism. Gundlupet MLA and board member Ganesh Prasad said the ban had affected rural livelihoods linked to safari-related activities.Former cricketer and Karnataka forest and wildlife ambassador Anil Kumble told the board that there was no direct evidence linking safaris to incidents of animals straying into human settlements. He noted safari routes cover less than 8% of the forest area.Explaining the rationale for the ban, forest minister Eshwar B Khandre said the decision followed a series of tiger attacks in Oct and Nov in which three people were killed and one person was left permanently disabled. He pointed out that no such incidents were reported during the two-month suspension. The minister also conveyed concerns raised by farmers, who believe disturbances caused by safari vehicles, including honking and bright headlights, may be pushing wildlife towards human habitations, highlighting the need for a scientific assessment.After considering the views of board members, CM directed the forest department to gradually resume safaris and set up a panel to assess the carrying capacity of Bandipur and Nagarahole and make recommendations.