Concerns surrounding illegal structures and unauthorized tourism activities within the Kali Tiger Reserve have caught the attention of higher officials in the Karnataka Forest Department (KFD), prompting an inquiry. In response to a news report published by BM and complaints from conservationists, the KFD has ordered an investigation into the matter.
The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (APCCF) of KFD has directed the Deputy Conservator of Forest of the reserve to provide a detailed report on the alleged activities. These concerns include safari operations, construction of an orchidarium, canopy walk, boat safaris, demolition of a nature interpretation center, and unauthorized trekking routes.
Nilesh Shinde, Deputy Conservator of Forest at Kali Tiger Reserve, confirmed the ongoing investigation, stating that the department is carefully examining each aspect raised by the APCCF. He emphasized the importance of thorough investigation to ascertain the legality of these activities.
Conservationists in Bengaluru have been vocal about the need to address such violations, citing the Project Tiger Guidelines 2012, which mandate approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority for new tourism infrastructure developments. They also raise concerns about the labeling of certain areas, such as Blue Waterfall in Anshi, as protection camps, despite previous scrutiny by the National Green Tribunal.
As Bengaluru takes the lead in scrutinizing these alleged infractions, the investigation highlights the city’s commitment to conservation efforts and adherence to wildlife protection regulations.
