Ban on Dooars tourists during breeding season of animals to be lifted in some areas

Kolkata: Much to the delight of the forest lovers, the state Forest department has decided to keep some selective portions of various forests in North Bengal open for the tourists from mid-June to-mid September.

The entire forest area in North Bengal remains closed for tourists from June 16 to September 15 during the monsoon season.

"A good number of tour operators, resort owners and transport operators had submitted a deputation last year urging department to keep certain areas in the forest open during the monsoon. Tourists have also urged our forest officials at various national parks expressing their desire to witness the natural beauty of the forest during this season. So we have decided to keep certain areas open this time," a senior official in the state Forest department said.

The season from June to September is the mating season for the animals and it is the responsibility of the department to ensure that they are not disturbed by any means.

According to a notification undersigned by state Chief Wildlife Warden Ravi Kant Sinha, Kalipur Jungle Camp, Dhupjhora Eco Tourism camp under Gorumara National Park, Panjhora Jungle Camp, Murti Jungle Camp, Hornbill Jungle Camp and Mouchuki Dhupjhora Eco Tourism resort, which are also located in close proximity to Gorumara will be kept open including the route in Chapramari forest from the entrance gate to the watch tower. The Dakshin Khayerbari Tiger Rescue Centre and Mendabari Jungle camp under Jaldapara National Park , the Nature Interpretation Centre at Rajabhatkhawa, Jainti, Santrabari and Buxaduar upto Buxa Fort, Poro Eco Park and Sikiajhora eco tourism centre under Buxa Forest will also remain open for the tourists.

However, the department will not allow any jeep safari or elephant safari in the forest during this period.

"It is essential to provide a period of least disturbance in national park and wildlife sanctuaries during rainy season for rejuvenation of flora and fauna and to maintain biodiversity in the area," the official said.