Karnataka Government Committee Recommends Phased Reopening of Tiger Reserve Safaris
Mysuru: Amid mounting pressure from the tourism industry for the early resumption of safari operations in Bandipur and Nagarahole tiger reserves, sources within the Karnataka state government have revealed that a specially appointed committee has submitted its interim report on restarting these crucial wildlife tourism activities.
Committee Recommends Phased Approach with Safety Measures
According to government sources familiar with the matter, the committee has specifically recommended restarting the safaris in a carefully planned phased manner, with adequate safeguards and protective measures firmly in place. This recommendation comes as tourism stakeholders have been advocating for reopening to sustain regional tourism activities that have been severely impacted by the prolonged closure.
Forest Minister Clarifies No Decision Yet Taken
However, Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre has clarified that the government has not yet taken any final decision regarding the reopening of the safaris. "The committee has submitted its interim report. However, no decision was taken," Minister Khandre stated, while declining to share further specific details about the report's contents or the government's timeline for consideration.
Background: Suspension Following Tiger Attacks
The committee was formed after a delegation from Mysuru's tourism sector met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, seeking his direct intervention to resume safari operations. The safaris have remained suspended since the first week of November 2025 following a series of concerning tiger attacks on farmers living in areas adjacent to the reserves.
Farmers Voice Strong Opposition to Reopening
Local farmers have expressed strong opposition to the potential reopening of safari activities, arguing that increased eco-tourism puts additional pressure on forest habitats. They contend that this pressure forces wild animals—particularly tigers and elephants—to stray into fringe villages, resulting in dangerous human-animal conflicts, attacks on humans, and significant damage to agricultural crops and livelihoods.
Political and Stakeholder Perspectives
HD Kote MLA Anil Chikkamadu, who also serves as chairman of the state government-owned Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR), expressed conditional support for restarting the safaris. "It is the farmers who have suffered huge losses due to the human–wildlife conflict. If the forest department is able to safeguard their interests and meet their demands, I welcome the resumption of safari activities," he stated, emphasizing the need to protect farmers' interests.
Local entrepreneur Ganesh Lad CY from HD Kote highlighted the economic impact of the safari closure, noting that it has affected the livelihoods of numerous families dependent on tourism. "Small-time entrepreneurs and local communities—those providing services such as guiding, vehicle arrangements, and other support—have been hit the hardest," he explained. Lad added, "Everyone is important in our society, including wild animals and farmers. The government should adopt a comprehensive action plan that helps all stakeholders."
Tourism Sector Warns of Long-Term Consequences
Meanwhile, stakeholders within the tourism sector have issued warnings about potential long-term consequences if the government fails to reopen the safaris promptly. BS Prashanth, president of the Mysuru Travels Association, stated that the prolonged closure is severely damaging regional tourism. "Tourists are moving towards alternative destinations like Wayanad and Mudumalai, where safaris are currently allowed. In the long run, we may lose visitors permanently if we don't resume operations soon," he claimed, highlighting the competitive nature of wildlife tourism in the region.
The situation remains at a critical juncture as the Karnataka government balances competing interests between tourism revival, wildlife conservation, farmer safety, and economic considerations for local communities dependent on safari-related activities.
