NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday emphasized the urgent need for a pan-India policy to standardize the management of tiger reserves, addressing issues such as vehicular disruptions and illegal activities that threaten wildlife conservation efforts.
During a hearing on irregularities in the Corbett Tiger Reserve, a bench headed by Justice BR Gavai, highlighted the importance of having consistent regulations across the country.
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Justice Gavai said: “We want a uniform policy across the country as far as management of tiger reserves is concerned.”
He cited an incident in Maharashtra’s Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, where safari vehicles obstructed the passage of a tigress and her cubs. “Fortunately, HC has taken suo motu cognizance,” SC said.
Senior advocate K Parameshwar, acting as amicus curiae, presented the findings of the CBI investigation into illegal construction and felling of over 6,000 trees, for Pakhro Tiger Safari Project in Uttarakhand.
The CBI report revealed serious errors, prompting the court to order the investigation to continue under direct judicial supervision.
SC directed the CBI to submit a full report on its investigation before the next hearing on March 19. Wildlife biologist Harendra Singh Bargali said: “The SC’s call for a uniform policy brings together some of the country’s best brains to address the challenges posed by growing wildlife tourism within our tiger reserves.”