14^th June 2023

To All Members,

Dear Colleagues

Sub: Regarding closure of Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves on all Wednesday w.e.f. 1st July 2023 

We are aware of the problems which our members are facing due to weekly closure of Wildlife Sanctuaries/Tiger Reserves on every Wednesday for full day w.e.f. 1st July 2023 on pan India basis.

In this regard we have written a letter to the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to review their decision as with this sudden decision by the Government, our members will find it difficult to manage the already confirmed bookings. We have also mentioned that it is extremely difficult to reschedule the already booked safaris as the rescheduling would involve changing the arrival/ departure the  accommodation, the transport and in any case the flight tickets. Availability of all of the above would also pose a challenge at such a short notice.

Following suggestions have been made:-

• National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to withdraw this order/notification to help the tourism industry and this can be implemented from 1^st July 2024.

• However, if it is not possible to extend it till 1^st July 2024, it is requested that Tiger Reserves can be closed for the afternoon safaris and keep the morning safaris ON. We shall advise our members to manage the safaris accordingly.

However, we have not received any response from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) so far. We are following up with the authorities to get favourable response on our letter. 

Members are advised to avoid Visit to Wildlife Sanctuaries/Tiger Reserves on Wednesdays from 1^st July 2023 onwards, till the time we get any positive response from the Government.

With best regards,