Authorities intensify patrolling in Corbett and Rajaji for New Year

DEHRADUN: Anticipating large inflow of tourists into Jim Corbett National Park and Rajaji National Park on New Year, the premier forest reserves of the state are beefing up security in the area to prevent any untoward incident.
“We have intensified patrolling to keep vigil on people indulging in anti-social activities. The vehicles entering the reserve are being checked to prevent easy flow of liquor and loud music inside the forest,” said Corbett Tiger Reserve director Surender Mehra.
Mehra said that not more than 90 visitors during the day and same number of people in the evening are permitted to visit the reserve, including New Year’s eve. “Similarly, bookings are restricted to 40 guest rooms and 35 dormitories. Resorts outside the reserve have also been asked to adhere to guidelines and not play music beyond 50 db noise level,” he said.
The porous southern boundary of Rajaji Tiger Reserve is vulnerable to poaching. The outer boundary dotted with farm houses is equally susceptible. Hence, the authorities have formed teams to patrol these area, along with Chilla and Haridwar ranges, which are rich in tiger density and are also closer to city pockets.
“We have increased surveillance on our southern border and area bordering farm houses, to avoid people entering into the forest and illegally hunting animals in an inebriated state,” said director of Rajaji, Sanatan.
He further said that the reserve has been asked to be cautious while booking guest houses, and not book the entire house for a group to avoid any parties in its premises.