Published May 21, 2026 | 6:48 PM ⚊ Updated May 21, 2026 | 6:48 PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes a safari in an open camper vehicle at the Bandipur Tiger Reserve on Sunday. (File photo)
Synopsis: Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has directed officials to replace open camper vehicles with secured buses for safari operations across the State’s tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries after a tourist died at the Dubare Elephant Camp in Kodagu. He also ordered officials to fit existing safari vehicles with iron-bar grills or shatterproof glass, equip them with first-aid kits, and ensure ambulance services.
Karnataka Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment Eshwar Khandre has directed officials to replace open camper vehicles with buses for safari operations across the State’s five tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
The order comes after a 33-year-old woman tourist died during a clash between two elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp in Kodagu.
Khandre said the State would replace open camper vehicles with fully secured buses to improve tourists’ safety during safaris. As an interim measure, existing vehicles will be fitted with iron-bar grills or shatterproof glass, he said.
He further directed officials to equip every safari vehicle with a first-aid kit and ensure ambulance services near safari centres and elephant camps.
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On Monday, May 18, 33-year-old Juneshe was crushed to death at the Dubare Elephant Camp in Kodagu after she was caught in a fight between two Dasara elephants, Kanjan and Jai Marthanda.
Jai Marthanda was being bathed by tourists as part of an activity offered at the camp when Kanjan was brought nearby to drink water.
Kanjan then reportedly attacked Jai Marthanda, triggering a clash between the two elephants.
During the fight, one of the elephants reportedly lost balance and fell on the tourist, who was taking part in the bathing activity. Jai Marthanda sustained injuries to its head, ears and back during the fight. The elephant succumbed to its injuries the next day.
(Edited by Dese Gowda with inputs from Anisha Reddy)
