Sun Apr 06 08:57:36 UTC 2025: **Mysuru Activists Protest Potential Lifting of Bandipur Night Traffic Ban**
MYSURU, April 6, 2025 – Hundreds of activists and concerned citizens participated in a “Walk for Bandipur” on Sunday, protesting against potential plans to lift the night traffic ban through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. The demonstration, organized by the United Conservation Movement, began at the Primary Healthcare Center in Kaggala Hundi and drew participants from Mysuru, Bengaluru, and surrounding villages.
Concerns are rising that political pressure and demands for increased convenience from Kerala may lead to the ban’s repeal. Protesters argue that lifting the ban would severely compromise the ecological balance and increase human-wildlife conflict, already costing the Karnataka government ₹40 crore annually in compensation for crop losses and fatalities.
Former Bandipur Director T. Balachander addressed the rally, emphasizing the ban’s success in minimizing accidents and conflict. He warned that lifting the ban would inevitably lead to a surge in these incidents. A memorandum was submitted to the Conservator of Forests and Director of Bandipur Tiger Reserve, and organizers plan further protests and outreach to lawmakers to prevent the ban’s removal. A separate demonstration was also held near Ashoka Circle by members of the Gandhadagudi Foundation, echoing the same concerns.
First Piper 