Every year, lakhs of tourists visit Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) in Nainital, Uttarakhand, hoping to catch a glimpse of tigers, elephants, deer and colourful birds during jungle safaris. For many visitors, recording this thrilling experience on mobile phones has become as important as the safari itself. However, this is set to change.
To reduce human disturbance inside the forest, the Corbett administration has decided to ban mobile phones during jungle safaris. Tourists will no longer be allowed to carry their phones inside the reserve. However, visitors interested in nature and wildlife photography will still be permitted to carry professional cameras like DSLRs, as these do not create noise or distractions.
The decision has been taken following directions from the Supreme Court, which has stressed the need to reduce human interference in the natural habitats of wild animals.
New Guidelines Being Finalised
According to Rahul Mishra, Deputy Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve, new guidelines are being prepared to implement the court’s orders effectively on the ground. Under the new system, tourists will be required to deposit their mobile phones at the entry gate before entering the forest.
This rule will not apply only to tourists. Registered tour guides, gypsy drivers, naturalists, and even staff working in hotels and lodges located in the core zone will also have to follow the same rule. In short, no one will be allowed to carry a mobile phone inside the safari area. Authorities have also made it clear that strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the rule.
Wildlife Safety Is the Main Reason
The primary reason behind this strict step is the safety and well-being of wild animals. Wildlife experts say that mobile phones have been causing several problems inside the forest. In the rush to click photos and shoot videos, tourists often try to get too close to animals. This makes animals uncomfortable, scared, and sometimes aggressive.
Another major concern is that mobile networks were being used to share the location of animals, especially tigers. As a result, many safari vehicles would gather at one spot, creating crowding, noise and stress for the animals. The growing trend of making reels and selfies inside the jungle has also put both human lives and wildlife at risk.
The new mobile phone ban will be strictly enforced across all major safari zones of Corbett, including Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Garjia, Sarpduli, Gairal, Sultan, Sonanadi, Pakhro and Sitabani. These include both day safari areas and night-stay zones.
Officials believe that this step will help restore peace inside the forest, allowing animals to behave naturally and giving visitors a more authentic and responsible wildlife experience.
