Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has instructed officials to restart safari and eco-tourism operations in Bandipur and Nagarhole National Parks. This directive includes ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, Shivakumar addressed minor technical issues related to the Mekedatu drinking water project, accusing Tamil Nadu of using technical objections to delay the project.
Shivakumar issued these directives during a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Karnataka State Board for Wildlife at the Vidhana Soudha Committee Hall. Officials highlighted that the safari and eco-tourism zones of Bandipur and Nagarhole have a higher density of tigers and leopards compared to areas experiencing human-wildlife conflicts. As a precaution, the Chief Minister emphasized that safari activities should resume only after implementing robust safety measures.
The meeting also discussed how the BMIC Corridor’s construction has disrupted the traditional movement paths of elephants, tigers, and leopards. This disruption has led to wildlife moving towards Channapatna and Ramanagara, escalating human-wildlife conflicts in those regions. Furthermore, officials noted that while approval for the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway included conditions for wildlife-friendly infrastructure, these conditions were not adequately met during construction.
Concerns were raised about the failure to address the removal of dried and hazardous trees within Bengaluru, leading to accidents during severe weather conditions. In response, the Chief Minister emphasized the immediate identification and removal of hazardous trees to prevent such incidents and prioritize public safety.
