Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh is preparing to restrict vehicular traffic from sunset to sunrise on roads passing through and connected to the core areas of its tiger reserves, in compliance with a recent Supreme Court directive aimed at minimizing human interference in wildlife habitats during night hours.
The proposed restrictions will apply to all tiger reserves in the state, including Ratapani, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura, Panna, Nauradehi, and Sanjay Dubri. The move is expected to affect more than a dozen key roads, impacting local residents and through traffic.
Supreme Court Order Drives Conservation Measures
The Supreme Court, in its judgment dated November 17, directed states to ensure reduced human activity in wildlife core areas at night to safeguard animals, particularly tigers. Following the ruling, the Madhya Pradesh government has already banned night safaris and the use of mobile phones in core tourist zones of tiger reserves.
The closure of roads during night hours is now under active consideration as part of the broader compliance framework.
Forest Department Seeks Road Data from Park Authorities
According to departmental sources, the Forest Department has sought detailed information from all tiger reserve managements regarding roads that pass through or are directly connected to core areas. An internal assessment is underway to determine which roads fall under the purview of the court’s order.
“An assessment is being conducted to identify roads located in core areas of tiger reserves. An appropriate decision will be taken after review. Night safaris and mobile phone usage have already been banned,” said Shubhranjan Sen, PCCF (Wildlife).
Roads Likely to Be Affected Across Tiger Reserves
More than a dozen roads across the state have been identified as potentially impacted by the proposed restrictions. These include:
- Ratapani Tiger Reserve: Jhiri Gate–Gol Chowk, Obedullaganj, Delawadi, Rehti
- Bandhavgarh: Umaria–Tala–Manpur road
- Kanha: Mukki Gate–Garhi road, Khatia Gate road
- Panna: Panna city–Madla Gate, Amanganj–Panna road
- Nauradehi: Rahli–Jabalpur road
- Pench: Tunia Gate to highway
- Satpura: Madhai–Sohagpur road
- Sanjay Dubri: Chamra Dol–Barka Dol road
These roads are used by local populations as well as inter-district traffic, raising concerns about connectivity and daily commuting.
Essential Services to Be Exempted
During the night-time restrictions, essential services will be exempted. Vehicles belonging to ambulances, police, fire services, forest department, and a limited number of emergency cases will be allowed movement with special permission.
Wildlife Experts Welcome the Move
Wildlife experts and conservationists have largely welcomed the Supreme Court’s directive.
“The court’s order for conservation and protection of wildlife is commendable. However, the government must carefully decide the status of roads that fall under this order,” said Sudesh Waghmare, Member, State Wildlife Board, Madhya Pradesh.
Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey said the night-time closure would help ensure free movement of animals. “This will reduce human-wildlife conflict, prevent illegal mining, and curb accidents involving wild animals,” he added.
Impact on Local Population Under Review
While conservation benefits are clear, the proposed move is expected to affect thousands of residents living near tiger reserves, along with transporters and commuters who rely on these roads. The state government is expected to take a final call after reviewing road data and stakeholder feedback.
