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Leopard Haven: Court Bans Night Safaris
27 Mar
Summary
- Night safari banned in Jawai leopard reserve.
- Drones and spotlights are prohibited to protect wildlife.
- Tourism now restricted to daylight hours in the reserve.
The Rajasthan High Court has significantly tightened regulations within the Jawai leopard conservation reserve and its surrounding areas. A division bench has issued a ban on night safaris, confining all wildlife tourism activities to the hours between 6 am and 7 pm. This decision addresses concerns about unregulated tourism impacting the ecologically sensitive region in Pali district.
The court's order also includes an immediate prohibition on the use of drones, spotlights, and other intrusive devices that disturb wildlife, with a directive for prompt penal action against any violators. The bench emphasized the constitutional duty to protect the environment and wildlife, linking it to the fundamental right to life.
Recognizing Jawai as a unique area of human-wildlife coexistence, the court noted the increasing threats from commercialization and unregulated tourism infrastructure. The petitioner highlighted rampant violations, including night safaris and drone surveillance, causing stress to wildlife and safety risks. Interim directions have been issued to restrain individuals disturbing wildlife, with authorities asked to file replies by April 20.
