Karnataka Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre has directed officials to replace open camper vehicles with fully secured buses for safari operations across the state’s tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, following the death of a tourist in Kodagu.
The decision comes after a 33-year-old woman, identified as Juneshe, died at the Dubare Elephant Camp after being caught in a clash between two elephants. The incident has raised serious concerns about tourist safety during wildlife interactions.
Khandre stated that all open camper vehicles currently used for safaris would be phased out and replaced with enclosed buses to enhance safety. As an interim measure, existing vehicles will be fitted with iron-bar grills or shatterproof glass. He also instructed authorities to equip every safari vehicle with first-aid kits and ensure the availability of ambulance services near safari centres and elephant camps.
The fatal incident occurred on May 18 when Juneshe was participating in an elephant bathing activity at the camp. One of the elephants, Jai Marthanda, was being bathed by tourists when another elephant, Kanjan, was brought nearby to drink water. Kanjan reportedly attacked Jai Marthanda, triggering a clash between the two animals.
During the confrontation, one of the elephants lost balance and fell, fatally injuring the tourist. Jai Marthanda sustained multiple injuries to its head, ears, and back in the fight and died the following day.
The incident has prompted the State government to review existing safety protocols at wildlife tourism sites, with officials expected to implement stricter guidelines to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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