Eshwar Khandre has directed forest officials to prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to improve tourist safety at elephant camps and eco-tourism destinations across Karnataka following the recent tragedy at Dubare Elephant Camp.
The directions were issued to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden after a 33-year-old tourist from Chennai died during elephant bathing activities at the camp.
Tourists to watch elephants from 100 feet away
The minister ordered that tourists should only be allowed to watch elephant bathing from a minimum distance of 100 feet starting Tuesday onwards.
Officials have also been instructed to strictly prohibit tourists from:
- Taking selfies or photographs near elephants
- Feeding elephants directly by hand
- Participating in elephant bathing activities
The restrictions will apply at all elephant camps across Karnataka.
Incident at Dubare triggers concern
According to officials, the victim, Tulasi, was standing near the river while watching elephants being bathed when the incident occurred.
Two trained elephants, Kanjan and Marthanda, reportedly began fighting during the bathing session. Despite efforts by mahouts to control them, one elephant charged at the other, causing Marthanda to lose balance and fall.
Tulasi became trapped underneath the elephant and died at the spot. Her husband and child reportedly escaped unhurt.
A video of the incident recorded by bystanders later circulated online, triggering widespread concern over tourist safety at elephant camps.
SOP to focus on visitor safety
Khandre said tourist safety must remain the top priority at all eco-tourism destinations in the state.
The minister noted that trekking activities under eco-tourism programmes had already been temporarily suspended until strict safety guidelines were implemented. Similar SOPs will now be framed for elephant camps as well.
Authorities are expected to introduce stricter crowd control measures, viewing zones, and operational guidelines for mahouts and tourist