Why Banned Safaris to see Tiger in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand
Tigers in Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, India, has long been celebrated for tiger sighting in the wild and thrilling tiger safaris. However, recent developments have led to the banning of tiger safaris in the core areas of the park. Let’s delve into why Why Banned on Tiger Safaris in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand?
The Ministry of Tourism has highlighted a pressing issue regarding tourism infrastructure obstructing vital tiger and elephant corridors linking Corbett with adjacent forests. Particularly, Dhikuli in the eastern part of Corbett has witnessed a surge in resort construction, with over 65 establishments currently present.
This concentration of resorts, along with encroachments in Sundarkhal, is impeding the Kosi wildlife corridor, crucial for connecting Corbett Tiger Reserve to Sitabani and other forests in the Ramnagar Forest Division. This obstruction affects one of the ten corridors identified as essential for conservation efforts by both the Wildlife Institute of India and the state forest department.
Tigers in Jim Corbett
The latest tiger census report reveals a population of 260 tigers in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and 229 tigers outside the reserve in Kumaon. The Shivalik-Bhabar tracts in Uttarakhand are noted for their tiger habitats, with potential for more tigers in areas such as Almora, Nainital, and Champawat forest divisions, according to the Wildlife Institute of India.
What are the core areas of Jim Corbett?
Jim Corbett National Park, part of the World Wide Fund For Nature’s Terai Arc Landscape programme, protects key species like tigers, Asiatic elephants, and green-horned rhinoceros. Covering 1,288.31 sq km, it comprises 822 sq km of core zone (Jim Corbett National Park) and 466.31 sq km of buffer area (including reserve forests and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary).
1. Conservation Efforts:
The dwindling population of tigers has been a cause for concern among conservationists for years. Recognizing the need to protect these majestic creatures and their habitat, the Supreme Court intervened to safeguard the natural ecosystem of the park.
2. Environmental Impact:
Tiger safaris, while popular among tourists, have inadvertently contributed to the degradation of the environment. Littering, pollution, and the disturbance caused by safari vehicles have all taken a toll on the fragile ecosystem of the park.
3. Balancing Tourism and Conservation:
Acknowledging the importance of tourism to the local economy, the decision to ban tiger safaris in core areas was made with careful consideration. By restricting safaris to buffer zones and peripheral areas, the aim is to strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving the natural habitat of tigers.
4. Sustainable Tourism:
The ban serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable tourism practices. While tourism can provide economic benefits, it must not come at the expense of the environment. By reevaluating the concept of safaris and implementing stricter regulations, authorities aim to ensure the long-term viability of both tourism and conservation efforts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ban on tiger safaris in core areas of Jim Corbett National Park reflects a commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving the natural beauty of the region. It is a step towards fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and Tigers in Jim Corbett, where both can thrive in harmony.
