Fri Mar 28 13:48:45 UTC 2025: **Karnataka Weighs Lifting Ban on Night Traffic Through Bandipur Tiger Reserve**
Bengaluru, March 28, 2025 – The Karnataka government is carefully considering whether to lift the night traffic ban through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, a decision described as “highly sensitive” by Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre. The ban, currently in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., is the subject of a Supreme Court petition seeking its removal.
Minister Khandre, following meetings with Congress leaders in Delhi, stated that a consensus will be reached only after consultation with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and legal experts. He emphasized the need to consider the relationship between Karnataka and Kerala in the decision-making process.
This deliberation follows an emergency meeting earlier this week where the Minister sought input from senior officials, including consideration of an affidavit from a Forest Department official opposing the lifting of the ban. The Karnataka government is reportedly facing pressure from Kerala Congress leaders to end the night restrictions. A final decision is pending.
First Piper 