Tadoba may be closed for tourists this monsoon Mazhar Ali, TNN

CHANDRAPUR: After over 15 years of its creation, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) may, for the first time, close its gates for tourists during this monsoon season. TATR is the only tiger reserve in the state that remains open for tourists during rainy season. However, authorities have taken a cue from other reserves and now decided to close it for tourist during monsoon. A proposal to this effect has been forwarded to higher ups for approval.

TATR, spread over 625.40 sq km, was created in 1995 by merging Tadoba National Park and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary. Tourist arrangements in Tadoba have seen several changes during the last few years. It began with removal of halting facility in Tadoba range and closure of tourist rest house in the heart of tiger land over three years back. Soon, open tourist gypsies started plying in the tiger reserve for convenience of the visitors. New entry gates were opened for easy access for visitors into the tiger reserve. Several tourist resorts mushroomed around the tiger reserve and forest department too constructed several facilities to serve the tourists. Timings of entry and exit were adjusted according to seasons. All these steps were taken in view of having better balance between tourism and protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly tigers in the TATR.

TATR field director Vinaykumar Sinha said, "All tiger reserves are closed for tourists during monsoon, but TATR is the exception. However, we have decided to close our park for tourists from this rainy season and have sought approval from PCCF office." If the proposal is cleared, the reserve would be closed for tourists between mid-June and first week of October. He held that though tourism would be hampered during monsoon, but closure would help the park managers in better management and protection.

Nitin Desai, wildlife activist and director (Central India) of Wildlife Protection Society of India, welcomed the move, but with some apprehensions. "Closure of park during rainy season has its pros and cons. While lesser tourism is good for flourishing of wildlife and forest, it is harmful from the point of view of protection as poachers may be encouraged to intrude into the reserve due to lesser tourist activity." Desai held that roads in tiger reserve are extensive damaged to the by vehicular movement during rainy season. Moreover, wildlife sighting is reduced due to spread of greenery everywhere. There is also a possibility accident with wildlife due thick growth of foliage during rainy season, hence closure could come handy. "With no tourists moving around for almost four months, forest thieves might take advantage. Hence, TATR authorities need to ensure enhanced protection if they close the park," he added.
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