Karnataka Halts Safaris at Bandipur and Nagarhole Reserves After Three Fatal Tiger Attacks

Bengaluru | November 7, 2025 The Karnataka government has suspended all safari activities at the Bandipur and Nagarhole Tiger Reserves following a series of tragic tiger attacks that claimed three lives in just 15 days. The decision, announced by Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on Friday, also includes a statewide ban on trekking in areas known for human-wildlife conflict. The move comes after 35-year-old farmer Chowdaiah Naik was killed by a tiger near Hale Heggodilu village in Mysuru district earlier that morning. The area lies close to the Moleyur forest range of Bandipur, where forest officials believe the same tiger has been responsible for multiple recent attacks. The incident has caused fear and tension among nearby villagers, who have been demanding stronger safety measures. Minister Khandre expressed condolences to the victim’s family and directed senior forest officers to immediately suspend safaris at both reserves. The minister also ordered that all safari staff—including guides, drivers, and guards—be reassigned to assist with the tiger-tracking and capture mission in Moleyur. He stated that safaris will remain closed until the situation stabilizes and it is safe for tourists to return. “Our top priority is the safety of both people and wildlife,” Khandre said, emphasizing that swift and coordinated action is crucial to prevent further loss of life. The forest department has intensified rescue operations with multiple teams deployed to locate the tiger believed to be behind the recent attacks. Drones and trap cameras are being used to track the animal’s movements. Local residents have been advised to avoid forest edges and report any tiger sightings immediately. In his communication to the Chief Wildlife Warden, Khandre referred to recent meetings with local communities and representatives, where they had agreed to suspend safaris if the situation worsened. After the latest attack, he said, “The time for discussion is over. We must act decisively to ensure safety.” The minister has also ordered a temporary halt on trekking in sensitive areas across districts such as Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga—regions known for frequent human-animal interactions. The directive aims to reduce risk to trekkers while also preventing stress to wildlife during the ongoing rescue efforts. Senior officers from the wildlife department, including the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and the Project Tiger Director at Bandipur, have been stationed at the site to oversee the operation. Authorities have assured that the suspension is temporary but necessary. Once the tiger is located and relocated safely, and the risk to the public is eliminated, normal safari operations will resume. This decision, though disappointing for tourists, reflects the government’s commitment to safety and responsible wildlife management. Karnataka Halts Safaris at Bandipur and Nagarhole Reserves After Three Fatal Tiger Attacks The Karnataka government has stopped all safari tours at the famous Bandipur and Nagarhole Tiger Reserves after three people lost their lives in tiger attacks within just 15 days. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced the move, saying public safety is the top priority. The most recent victim was a 35-year-old farmer from Mysuru district who was killed near the Bandipur forest range. This tragedy led the government to take strict steps — including a statewide ban on trekking in forest areas where human-wildlife conflict is common. All safari guides, drivers, and forest staff have been asked to join the ongoing operation to track and capture the tiger suspected of the attacks. Minister Khandre also directed forest officers to stay in the area until the animal is safely located. Officials said that safaris will remain suspended until it is completely safe for visitors to return. The forest department has also increased surveillance using drones and cameras to trace the tiger’s movements. This step shows Karnataka’s commitment to protecting both people and wildlife — ensuring that conservation never comes at the cost of safety.