While rising incidents of poaching and human-wildlife clashes continue to trouble Karnataka’s forest officials, they are now grappling with another serious concern — a fraudulent website offering bogus safari bookings across state tiger reserves and Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP).
Forest authorities have detected a fake platform falsely operating under the name “Bannerghatta National Park,” misleading visitors by selling safari tickets. In cases related to BBP and Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (NTR), the website has been identified and legal proceedings are being initiated. However, similar actions are pending for other tiger reserves in the state.
Authorities have cautioned the public and tourists against falling prey to such fraud. They recommend using only official, recognized portals or physically visiting BBP and forest counters for legitimate safari bookings.
Surya Sen, Executive Director of BBP, clarified that no safari is offered under any “Bannerghatta National Park” website. “This fraudulent site sells tickets for ₹2,000 (adults) and ₹1,000 (children), issues a receipt with payment details, but provides no safari specifics,” he said.
Upon inquiry, the mobile number linked to the site was traced to a Jaipur-based travel agency. Though the representative had considerable information about BBP, they failed to deliver any valid tickets.
Sen stressed the importance of using the BBP’s official website — bannerghattabiopark.org — for ticket bookings. BBP is coordinating with local police to lodge a formal complaint.
NTR Director Seema PA confirmed similar fake bookings and highlighted the growing threat. Principal Chief Conservator Subhash B Malkhade assured that investigations are ongoing and strict action will follow.
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