Karnataka to swap open safari jeeps for buses after tourist dies in elephant clash

Following the death of a woman tourist at the Dubare Elephant Camp in Kodagu district, Karnataka Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B Khandre on Wednesday directed officials to replace open camper vehicles with safer buses for safari operations across the state’s five tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries,

A tourist woman died during a clash between two trained elephants at the Dubare elephant camp on May 18. Following the incident, Khandre instructed the Chief Wildlife Warden to strengthen safety measures for tourists participating in safaris across the state.

According to officials, safaris are conducted in tiger reserves including Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, Kali Tiger Reserve, Biligirirangana Hills and Bhadra Tiger Reserve, along with forest and wildlife destinations such as Male Mahadeshwara Hills, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and K Gudi.

These locations attract tourists and wildlife enthusiasts not only from across Karnataka but also from different parts of India and abroad.

In a statement issued by the minister’s office, Khandre said no incidents had been reported so far in safari areas where wild animals such as elephants or tigers attacked safari vehicles and caused fatalities. However, he stressed the need to take precautionary measures before any such tragedy occurs.

For the safety of tourists, Khandre directed officials to replace open camper vehicles used in safaris with fully enclosed and secured buses. He also instructed authorities to fit existing camper vehicles with iron mesh barriers or shatterproof glass for additional protection.

The minister further ordered that tourists should not be allowed to step out inside forest areas during safaris. He also directed officials to ensure that every safari vehicle carries a first-aid kit and that ambulances remain stationed near safari centres and elephant camps for emergency response.

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