Forest Department Bans Mobile Phone Use During Safaris Across Karnataka, Including Nagarhole

Bengaluru, Oct. 13: Kumar Pushkar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force) and Chief Wildlife Warden, has issued an order completely banning the use of mobile phones during all wildlife safaris in the state.

Following a video conference with officials—held in compliance with a Supreme Court directive—an order has been issued to strictly prohibit the use of mobile phones by tourists, drivers, and guides during wildlife safaris. Additionally, instructions have been given to install wireless communication systems in all safari vehicles for emergency purposes. Henceforth, the use of mobile phones by tourists, drivers, and guides during safaris is completely banned. The circular states that this strict measure has been implemented in accordance with the Supreme Court's directive.

According to the order issued by Kumar Pushkar on October 9, and pursuant to Paragraph 48.5 of the Supreme Court's order dated November 17, 2025, the use of mobile phones is completely prohibited within the eco-tourism zones located in the core areas of tiger reserves. The Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) must take necessary measures to ensure that tourists, drivers, and nature guides deposit their mobile phones at designated locations before proceeding on a safari and use their devices in 'silent mode' while inside safari vehicles. Clear signage regarding the ban on mobile phone usage must be displayed at the starting point and within all safari vehicles, and tourists must be provided with appropriate guidance. To ensure the safety of tourists and staff, it must be made mandatory to install and maintain functional mobile wireless communication systems in all safari vehicles. Appropriate instructions should be conveyed via the ticket booking software to raise public awareness regarding the permissible use of cameras instead of mobile phones.

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