CHANDRAPUR: The partial closure of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) for monsoon period came into effect from Friday following directives of chief wildlife warden SK Khetrapal. As per new arrangements, the interior kuccha roads of the park would remain close for safari, while only 16 tourist vehicles would be allowed collectively in two shifts to stroll along pucca road during the day until September 30.
First day of partial closure proved disheartening for many tourists, who were disallowed after full quota of eight vehicles were completed. "Only eight vehicles each were allowed to enter the park in one shift today. The guide accompanying the vehicle was strictly ordered to ensure that tourist vehicle follows only pucca road between Moharli and Tadoba," sources in TATR said. It is for first time in over 15 years of creation of TATR, when specific tourist regulation directives have been issued for monsoon period.
The proposal seeking closure of the TATR on lines of other tiger reserve was forwarded by CCF and field director Vinaykumar Sinha earlier in May. Chief wildlife warden SK Khetrapal, however, agreed for partial closure for two and half months tagged with certain conditions. All the gates, other than Moharli, have been closed for the tourist during period of partial closure.
However, the closure would not effect the movement of state transport's bus that ferries passengers across tiger reserve or the villagers residing inside the park from any gate. TATR management would observe monsoon patrolling programme to enhance security arrangements in the reserve during the closure period.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/TATR-partially-closed-till-Sept-30/articleshow/9240955.cms
