The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to provide a response regarding an incident where tourist vehicles blocked the path of a tigress in a wildlife sanctuary. The case has drawn significant attention from wildlife conservationists and environmentalists, highlighting the growing concerns over tourism’s impact on the natural habitats of wild animals.
Incident Details
The incident took place in one of Maharashtra’s prominent wildlife sanctuaries, which attracts numerous tourists seeking to spot tigers and other wildlife. However, the presence of tourist vehicles in the sanctuary has been causing disturbances, particularly to the tigress, whose movement was obstructed by the vehicles.
Court’s Intervention
The High Court’s intervention is part of ongoing efforts to balance wildlife conservation with the increasing influx of tourists. The court has instructed the state government to submit a report on the steps being taken to prevent such incidents and to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors.
Importance of Stricter Regulations
This case underscores the need for stricter regulations on tourism in protected areas. Wildlife experts have long advocated for controlled tourism to prevent human activities from interfering with the natural behavior of animals and disrupting their habitats. The growing impact of tourism on wildlife sanctuaries calls for a careful approach to managing visitor numbers and activities.
Government’s Response Expected
The Maharashtra government is expected to respond to the court’s directive in the coming weeks. The response will likely include measures aimed at safeguarding the sanctuary’s wildlife and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What prompted the Bombay High Court to intervene in the case?
- A) A tourist vehicle causing an accident
- B) Tourist vehicles blocking the path of a tigress
- C) Illegal poaching activities in the sanctuary
- D) Uncontrolled fire in the sanctuary
- Answer: B) Tourist vehicles blocking the path of a tigress
- Where did the incident of tourist vehicles blocking the tigress’ path occur?
- A) Gir National Park
- B) Kanha Tiger Reserve
- C) A wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra
- D) Jim Corbett National Park
- Answer: C) A wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra
- What action has the Bombay High Court taken in this case?
- A) Ordered a ban on all tourism activities
- B) Directed the Maharashtra government to submit a report
- C) Ordered the closure of the sanctuary for tourists
- D) Imposed a fine on the tourists involved
- Answer: B) Directed the Maharashtra government to submit a report
- What is the main concern raised by wildlife conservationists regarding the incident?
- A) The increase in poaching activities
- B) The negative impact of tourism on wildlife habitats
- C) The safety of tourists in the sanctuary
- D) The pollution caused by tourist vehicles
- Answer: B) The negative impact of tourism on wildlife habitats
- What do wildlife experts recommend to address the issue of tourism in wildlife sanctuaries?
- A) A complete ban on tourism in protected areas
- B) Stricter regulations and controlled tourism
- C) Encouraging more tourists to visit sanctuaries
- D) Allowing only vehicle-free tourism
- Answer: B) Stricter regulations and controlled tourism