Chandrapur (Mohammad Suleman Baig) : The high entry fees at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve have angered residents of Chandrapur district. Locals say the charges are too costly for common people. On weekends, a safari in the core zone costs as much as ₹ 12,600 per gypsy, making it nearly impossible for local families to visit.
In response, Chandrapur MP Pratibha Dhanorkar has written to State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, demanding that the safari charges be reduced immediately.
Locals Hit by Conflict, Yet Pay Heavy Fees
Chandrapur is one of the worst-hit districts in terms of human–wildlife conflict, with many villagers losing their lives in tiger attacks. Despite this, residents are forced to pay thousands of rupees just to see a tiger inside Tadoba. Locals have called this treatment unfair and discriminatory.
Present fee structure (per gypsy, one round):
Core Zone (Mon–Fri): ₹8,600
Core Zone (Sat–Sun): ₹12,600
Buffer Zone (Mon–Fri): ₹7,300
Buffer Zone (Sat–Sun): ₹10,300
MP’s Demand
MP Dhanorkar has said:
“Local people should only pay ₹2,700 as vehicle fee and ₹600 per person as entry fee. Tadoba is the pride of Chandrapur, but sadly, its own people are being treated like outsiders. This injustice will not be accepted.”
Warning of Protest
The MP has warned that if the government does not reduce the fees before the new tourism season begins on October 1, then not a single gypsy will be allowed to enter Tadoba.
She added that this would be a major people’s movement to protect the rights of Chandrapur residents, and urged the government to act quickly and give locals justice.
