In a proactive step to protect the diverse wildlife within Karnataka’s Bandipur and Nagarahole tiger reserves, the number of daily safari trips has been officially reduced by one. This important decision was enacted on October 28, 2025, following a direct order from Minister for Forests, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre.
The move comes amidst mounting concerns over increasing tourist activity and its impact on the reserves. There has been a noticeable surge in visitors to both Bandipur and Nagarahole, with reports indicating that safari vehicles were frequently operating within tourism zones beyond the stipulated 6 p.m. curfew. Local farmers have voiced their apprehension, highlighting that this persistent disturbance to wildlife has led to an uptick in human-animal conflict incidents in villages bordering the forest areas.
Minister Khandre emphasized the delicate balance between promoting conservation education through tourism and ensuring the well-being of local communities and the animal inhabitants. While acknowledging that safaris contribute significantly to local livelihoods and raise awareness about forest conservation, he stressed the critical need to safeguard both natural habitats and human interests. The reduction in safari trips aims to achieve this crucial equilibrium.
Recent Developments: Tigress Captured
In related news, forest department officials successfully captured a tigress on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Anjanapura, Nanjangud taluk. This particular tigress, estimated to be between 8 to 9 years old, is distinct from the one currently being tracked near Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary, where a farmer tragically lost his life in a recent tiger attack.
Described by authorities as a “problematic” animal, the captured tigress has since been safely transferred to the Koorgalli wildlife rescue centre, located on the outskirts of Mysuru, where it will receive necessary treatment and care.