Amid confusion among tourists over reports of an early closure of jungle safaris, authorities have clarified that safari operations in the core tourism zones of Pench and Bor Tiger Reserves will continue as scheduled until June 30.The uncertainty arose after online safari booking portals reportedly showed a “closed” status for dates between June 16 and June 30, prompting concerns among wildlife enthusiasts and visitors that the reserves were advancing their annual monsoon shutdown.
Addressing the issue on Thursday, Pench Chief Conservator of Forests and Field Director, S. Ramesh Kumar, said there has been no change in the closure schedule.“Both Pench and Bor Tiger Reserves will remain open for visitors till June 30. Safari bookings will continue through both online and offline modes,” Kumar said, dismissing reports of an early closure.
Officials said the confusion appears to have originated from a communication sent on May 19 to the National Informatics Centre (NIC), which manages the online safari booking system. The communication related to temporary technical arrangements and monsoon preparedness measures.
Following the update, several tourists noticed that safari slots appeared unavailable on the booking portal from June 16 onwards, leading to speculation that the reserves would close earlier than planned. Forest authorities have now assured visitors that safari operations will continue normally until the end of June.
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