A Difficult Chapter: Why Safaris Were Halted
The journey to this reopening began with a difficult period of conflict. In November 2025, the state government made the tough call to suspend all safari activities in both Bandipur and Nagarahole. The decision wasn't taken lightly; it came in the direct
aftermath of a spike in human-animal conflicts. Tragically, a series of tiger attacks in the region had led to the deaths of three farmers, prompting authorities to prioritize human safety and take precautionary measures to prevent further incidents. For months, the familiar sights and sounds of safari jeeps vanished from the forest tracks, creating uncertainty for both the local tourism economy and wildlife enthusiasts who cherish these natural treasures.
Finding a Path Forward
While the shutdown was necessary, a complete and permanent stop to eco-tourism was never the goal. Stakeholders in the tourism industry, whose livelihoods depend on the parks, urged the government to find a solution. In response, the Karnataka State Wildlife Board recommended establishing an expert committee in January 2026. This led to a phased approach, with safaris resuming at 50 percent capacity in February, allowing for limited activity under strict guidelines while the larger issues were studied. It was a temporary fix, designed to bridge the gap while a more permanent, science-backed solution could be found.
The Science of Safety: The Ecological Review
The key to a full reopening lay in the findings of a technical committee composed of wildlife experts and government officials. This group was tasked with a critical job: scientifically assessing the 'carrying capacity' of the two tiger reserves. In simple terms, they needed to determine how much tourism activity the ecosystem could sustain without negatively impacting wildlife behavior or escalating conflict. The committee’s comprehensive report, which analyzed environmental impact and animal behaviour, concluded that full-scale safari operations could resume safely. This green light was based on scientific evaluation, providing the government with the confidence to move forward.
More Than Just a Report
The decision wasn't based on the report alone. In parallel with the scientific review, forest authorities undertook significant on-the-ground mitigation efforts. These measures were crucial for addressing the root cause of the initial conflict. Over 20 tigers were captured and relocated from high-conflict zones along the park borders. To further secure the area, a critical 100-kilometre stretch of the Bandipur perimeter was reinforced, and 25 new dedicated anti-poaching camps with round-the-clock monitoring command centres were established. This two-pronged strategy of scientific assessment and proactive safety measures created a framework where both humans and wildlife could be better protected.
What the Full Return Means for Karnataka
With the government's final approval, safari services are set to return to their pre-November 2025 schedules at full capacity. This is a significant boost for Karnataka's eco-tourism sector, which reportedly faced major financial losses during the restrictions. More importantly, the government has reiterated its commitment to a sustainable model where tourism supports conservation. In a statement, the Chief Minister's office emphasized that responsible tourism is vital for protecting wildlife, generating local employment, and boosting the regional economy. Forest authorities have been instructed to ensure all safari operations continue under regulated guidelines, ensuring this delicate balance is maintained for the long term.
