Private resorts accused of violating forest laws by conducting night safari in Koppal district The Forest Department has sought action against some private resorts that have been allegedly conducting night safari in the reserve forest area in Koppal district, Karnataka. The department has written to the Deputy Commissioner of Koppal, asking him to initiate legal action against the resorts for violating the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
According to the Forest Department, the private resorts have been taking tourists on night safari in the forest area near Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, without obtaining any permission from the authorities. The night safari poses a threat to the wildlife and the ecology of the region, as it disturbs the natural behaviour and habitat of the animals. The forest area is home to several endangered species, such as sloth bears, leopards, wolves, hyenas, foxes, jackals and pangolins.
The Forest Department has also alleged that the private resorts have encroached upon the forest land and constructed illegal structures, such as tents, cottages, watch towers and fences, within the reserve forest area. The department has requested the Deputy Commissioner to demolish these structures and reclaim the forest land.
The Forest Department has also sought the cooperation of the local police and the revenue officials to curb the illegal activities of the private resorts and to protect the forest and wildlife resources. The department has warned that any violation of the forest laws will invite severe action, including imprisonment and fine