Karnataka Government Reopens Tiger Safaris Amidst Pressure from Eco-Tourism Sector
The Karnataka state government has announced the immediate resumption of tiger safaris at the Bandipur and Nagarahole tiger reserves. This decision comes in direct response to mounting pressure from the eco-tourism industry and local communities whose livelihoods were severely impacted by the suspension of safari operations, which was initially announced on November 7, 2025.
Background: Suspension Following Tiger Attacks and NTCA Concerns
The forest department had originally suspended all safari activities after a series of three consecutive tiger attacks on humans occurred in the Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts during October and November 2025. This move was further prompted by serious concerns raised by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) regarding the capture of 25 tigers from the same landscape between September and December 2025.
Although no new attacks were reported during the suspension period, the prolonged closure sparked significant unrest. Protests erupted, particularly in the HD Kote taluk of Mysuru district, where thousands of individuals dependent on tourism—including local citizens, farmers, and resort staff—saw their incomes drastically reduced. The controversy was intensified as neighboring states, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, experienced a noticeable tourism spillover effect.
Government Response and Minister's Statement
Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre addressed the situation, stating, "Thousands of local citizens, farmers and resort staffers in and around HD Kote taluk staged protests and demanded restart of safari. Hence, we are resuming the safari trips with immediate effect in a phased manner to ensure both lives and livelihood of the people are safeguarded."
He highlighted that preventive measures implemented after the suspension have been effective in curbing incidents. "After suspending the safari, several measures were introduced... no attack on humans was reported over the past two months. The chief wildlife warden also recommended reopening of safari," Khandre added.
Phased Reopening and Staff Deployment
To address concerns about a potential shortage of front-line staff in these tiger reserves, the minister clarified the strategy for the phased reopening. "Only 50% of existing staff and vehicles will be used for safari operations, while the rest will be deployed for patrolling and surveillance along forest boundaries to keep an eye on possible human-animal conflict situations," he explained.
Detailed Safari Operations and Carrying Capacities
The resumption includes specific operational details for each reserve:
- Bandipur Tiger Reserve: Safari zone in Bandipur with 3 vehicles per day, average safari time of 2.5 hours, and timings from 6:30 am to 9:00 am and 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm. It can collectively hold 800 visitors daily, with a capacity for 104 visits per day, though effective visits are limited to 31 per day. Safaris run for 5 hours daily.
- Nagarahole Tiger Reserve: Includes two safari zones:
- Sunkadakatte zone with 3 vehicles per day, average safari time of 3 hours, and timings from 6:30 am to 9:30 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. It can hold 762 visitors daily, with a capacity for 143 visits per day, effective visits at 36 per day, and safaris running 6 hours daily.
- Nagarahole zone with 1 vehicle per day, average safari time of 2 hours, and timings from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 3:00 am to 5:00 pm. It can hold 320 visitors daily, with a capacity for 57 visits per day, effective visits at 14 per day, and safaris running 4 hours daily.
This structured approach aims to balance tourism revival with wildlife conservation and public safety, ensuring that the resumption of safaris is managed responsibly to prevent future conflicts.
