Sariska Tiger Reserve Considers CNG Buses as Electric Bus Plan Stalls
The Rajasthan state forest department is actively considering a significant shift in its transportation strategy for the Sariska Tiger Reserve. After repeated unsuccessful attempts to launch electric bus services within the protected area, officials are now exploring the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as an alternative green energy solution.
Failed Electric Bus Tenders Prompt New Approach
Despite issuing tenders on two separate occasions and extending deadlines multiple times, the forest department failed to attract any companies willing to operate electric bus services in the reserve. This persistent lack of interest from potential operators has forced authorities to reconsider their approach to reducing vehicular pollution in this ecologically sensitive tiger habitat.
"In a recent meeting, it was discussed to explore alternative options and request the Hon'ble Supreme Court for CNG operations," revealed a forest department officer. "The proposal will be presented in the next hearing at the court."
Supreme Court Directive and Implementation Challenges
The original push for electric buses came as the Supreme Court's December deadline for reducing vehicular pollution in Sariska Tiger Reserve approached. The court had specifically directed the implementation of electric vehicle operations to safeguard the ecological integrity of Sariska, which holds the unique distinction of being the only tiger habitat within the National Capital Region (NCR).
When Rajasthan roadways was tasked with issuing tenders for the electric bus service, potential operators raised serious concerns about financial viability. The proposed twice-weekly schedule—limited to Tuesdays and Saturdays—was cited as insufficient to make the service economically sustainable for private operators.
Current Traffic Patterns and Proposed Solution
Sariska Tiger Reserve, spanning approximately 800 square kilometers, experiences significant vehicular traffic from devotees visiting multiple temples located within its boundaries. The Pandupol Temple, situated 22 kilometers inside the core zone, attracts particularly heavy visitor numbers.
Currently, vehicles registered in Alwar and Bhiwadi districts are permitted entry on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Under the proposed new transportation system, visitors would be required to park their vehicles at the reserve's office premises and complete their journey to temple sites using either electric or CNG buses operated by the forest department.
CNG as Recognized Green Alternative
While electric vehicles were initially preferred for their zero-emission credentials, CNG buses are also officially recognized as a green energy option that could significantly reduce pollution levels within the tiger reserve. The forest department's forthcoming proposal to the Supreme Court will seek permission to implement CNG bus operations as a practical alternative that addresses both environmental concerns and operational feasibility.
This development represents a pragmatic adjustment to conservation strategy, balancing ecological protection with practical implementation challenges in one of India's most important tiger habitats.
