Kolkata: Tourism activities will remain suspended in the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve area from June 17 (Wednesday) to June 22 (Monday), according to a notice issued by the office of the chief conservator of forests and the field director of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve on Monday.
Unavoidable Administrative Circumstances
The notice stated that the instructions were being given due to “unavoidable administrative circumstances and in the interest of public and tourist safety,” but it did not elaborate on the specific reasons behind the decision.
A source indicated that this suspension could lead to the cancellation of approximately 50 permits per day, totaling over 300 permits. “This will translate to a huge loss, if we take into account the guests’ fooding and lodging, too,” the source added.
Impact on Tourism
The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve attracts more than 4 lakh tourists annually. The reserve will reopen to tourists on June 24, as June 23, being a Tuesday, is a no-tourism day in the mangroves.
“All registered tour operators, hoteliers, boat owners and lodge owners are requested to strictly adhere to the directive, suspend all guest bookings and halt transit within the reserve area during this window. Entry permits will not be issued, and access to all eco-tourism spots will be barred,” the notice added.
The order is being issued in the larger interest of public safety. Regular tourism will resume on June 24.
