Bandipur ban from Saturday

As per the revised plan, the ban will be enforced strictly from August 8. Till then, forest staff will distribute hand bills and pamphlets to drivers of all vehicles passing through the national park,  according to sources.

Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner Manojkumar Meena issued orders three days ago stating that the ban would be implemented in “letter and spirit” from August 5. As per the ban, no vehicle was to be allowed to through the national park between 9 pm and 6 am, except a few buses and ambulances.

A reality check conducted by Deccan Herald on Wednesday revealed that all the vehicles were allowed from Melukamanahalli Gate, the entry point for the national park, after 9 pm. Forest guards and watchers stood at the gate and informed drivers that the ban orders would be strictly implemented from August 8.

Most drivers were not at aware of the ban. However, they heaved a sigh of relief once they were told by forest staff about the new directive. Deputy Conservator of Forests (Project Tiger) Raju said the ban would be implemented in a phased manner.