Tourists, resort owners, and guides associated with the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR)have expressed strong displeasure over the non-implementation of revised safari timings, despite a formal decision taken over a month ago.
A joint meeting of the TATR Conservation Foundation held on March 6, 2025, had approved new safari hours for the summer season (April 15 to June 30). The revised schedule set the morning safari from 5:30 am to 9:30 am and the evening safari from 3 pm to 7 pm, keeping in mind the early sunrise and rising temperatures during the season, which impact wildlife movement and visitor comfort.
However, stakeholders claim the reserve continues to open gates at 6 am and close them by 10 am, denying visitors access to the crucial early morning window when wildlife activity, especially tiger sightings, is most frequent.
“That 30-minute delay in the morning makes a huge difference. Most sightings happen during those early dawn hours. Once the sun is up, animals disappear into the shade,” said Abhay Upadhye, a regular safari-goer.
Tourists, particularly those traveling from distant cities like Hyderabad, expressed frustration. “We pay a hefty amount for a safari at Tadoba. Not getting the full experience, especially in such hot weather, is unfair,” said M R Rao, a visitor.
Resort owners near Mohurli and Kolara gates also criticized the reserve authorities for failing to act. They pointed out that other wildlife parks in Vidarbha, as well as Kanha and Pench in Madhya Pradesh, have already revised their safari schedules in accordance with seasonal needs.
Guides and naturalists backed the demand, emphasizing that adherence to the revised timings would significantly enhance the chances of wildlife sightings and improve the overall safari experience.
Stakeholders are now urging the TATR management to immediately enforce the agreed-upon schedule to ensure both tourist satisfaction and optimal wildlife viewing conditions.
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