The Karnataka government has announced that open vehicle safaris will soon be discontinued across tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries in the state. According to Eshwar Khandre, safari vehicles currently operating in forests will either be replaced with bus safaris or fitted with unbreakable glass panels and iron mesh to improve visitor safety during wildlife excursions.
The decision follows growing concerns over close encounters between tourists and wild animals during jungle safaris. Authorities stated that ambulances will now be stationed near safari counters for emergency response, while first-aid kits will be made mandatory in all safari vehicles. The measures are intended to strengthen emergency preparedness inside protected forest areas across Karnataka.
The move gained urgency after a recent accident at Dubare Elephant Camp where a tourist from Tamil Nadu lost her life during an elephant interaction activity. Reports stated that a tamed elephant named Marthanda fell after being pushed by another elephant, causing fatal injuries to the visitor who was bathing elephants in the Cauvery river area near the camp.
Officials also referenced earlier wildlife incidents, including leopard attacks during safari rides at Bannerghatta Biological Park. In one case, a leopard reportedly entered a safari vehicle and attacked a child, while another tourist was injured during a separate incident. Though no fatalities occurred during safari operations, the forest department said preventive measures were necessary to avoid future risks.
Currently, Karnataka operates jungle safaris across several major wildlife destinations including Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Bhadra Tiger Reserve and Kali Tiger Reserve. Wildlife sanctuaries such as MM Hills and Dandeli also conduct safari operations that may now transition toward enclosed or bus-based transport systems.
Wildlife activists have largely welcomed the decision, noting that several instances of elephants chasing safari vehicles and close animal encounters have been reported over the years. Experts believe shifting toward enclosed buses and reinforced safari vehicles could significantly improve tourist safety while still allowing visitors to experience Karnataka’s forests and wildlife responsibly.