Karnataka's Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment Eshwar Khandre has ordered enhanced safety protocols in safari zones and elephant camps following the death of a 33-year-old tourist on May 18, 2026, at the Dubare elephant camp in Kodagu, caused by a collision between two elephants.
Open safari campers will be phased out and replaced with fully enclosed buses. As an interim measure, existing vehicles must be fitted with iron mesh or bulletproof glass and first-aid kits. Alighting from vehicles in forest areas is prohibited. The measures apply to Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks, Kali tiger reserve, Bhadra wildlife sanctuary and others.