The Karnataka Forest Department has barred visitors from feeding and taking flash selfies with captive elephants at the Dubare elephant camp. The new regulations aim to enhance safety for both tourists and animals.
Three-Zone System Introduced
The visiting area of the camp will now feature three distinct zones. Tourists will stay in the Green zone, while staffers and elephants will remain in the Amber and Red zones, respectively. This segregation ensures minimal direct interaction between visitors and the elephants, reducing stress for the animals and potential accidents.
Rationale Behind the Ban
Officials cited concerns over erratic animal behavior triggered by flash photography and improper feeding. Flash selfies can startle elephants, leading to aggressive responses, while feeding them inappropriate food poses health risks. The department emphasized that these measures align with wildlife conservation best practices.
Chiranjeevi Kulkarni reported on June 16, 2026, that the ban applies to all visitors and will be strictly enforced by camp staff. Violators may face penalties under the Karnataka Forest Act.
Impact on Tourism
The Dubare elephant camp, a popular eco-tourism destination, attracts thousands of visitors annually. While the new rules may limit some interactive experiences, authorities believe they will improve overall safety and animal welfare. Tourists can still observe elephants from designated areas and engage in educational programs.
The Forest Department urges visitors to cooperate with the guidelines and respect the animals' natural behavior. Further updates on the implementation are expected in the coming weeks.
