Nagpur: The Maharashtra Forest Department has rolled out a new set of regulations for jungle safaris across the state, following a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) initiated by the Court. This action was prompted by an incident on December 31, 2024, when tourist vehicles blocked the path of a tigress and her five cubs at the Umred–Paoni–Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, disturbing the animals and raising concerns about their safety.
The matter was heard by Justice Nitin Sambre and Justice Vrushali Joshi, who emphasized the need for stricter measures to safeguard wildlife. The newly implemented rules aim to promote responsible tourism while minimizing human impact on the region’s fragile ecosystem.
Key Provisions of the New Rules
- Tourist Behavior
- Tourists must refrain from creating noise or disturbances during jungle safaris.
- Actions that could harm or disrupt wildlife, particularly tigers, are strictly prohibited.
- Disposal of plastic or other waste in forest areas is banned, with violators facing strict penalties.
- Vehicle Regulations
- Vehicles must adhere to a speed limit of 30 km/h and cause minimal disruption to wildlife.
- Only designated routes may be used, and stopping near tigresses and their cubs is strictly forbidden to avoid causing distress.
- Rules for Guides and Drivers
- Guides and drivers are required to follow the new guidelines rigorously.
- Non-compliance may result in temporary or permanent suspension of their operating licenses.
- Awareness Initiatives
- Rule boards will be installed at sanctuary entry points to educate tourists.
- Brochures detailing forest conservation efforts and tourist guidelines will be distributed to encourage responsible behavior.
Penal Measures
Violators of the new regulations will face fines ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹25,000 and may also be subject to legal action.
The Forest Department believes these measures will strengthen the protection of Maharashtra’s wildlife, particularly its tiger population, while fostering a more disciplined and conservation-oriented approach to eco-tourism.