In a bid to revolutionize jungle safaris and boost tourism, the Maharashtra Forest Department is poised to launch a unique experience: jungle safaris by boat in the Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) from November this year. Maharashtra is renowned for hosting the second-highest population of tigers in the country. It is now determined to elevate its eco-tourism game by introducing innovative concepts within its pristine reserve forests. PTR is poised to carve its name in history as Central India’s pioneering tiger reserve to offer boat-based jungle safaris. PTR is promising visitors an unprecedented wildlife encounter.
The Maharashtra Forest Department currently permits jungle safaris using vehicles such as Maruti Gypsy, Mahindra Bolero, and Tata buses across all its tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Additionally, some tiger reserves, including the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) and Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR), employ trained elephants for safari adventures. To further enhance the jungle safari experience, PTR is set to receive an infusion of four additional elephants from Karnataka. However, the pièce de résistance of this endeavor is undoubtedly the introduction of boat safaris. Tourists will soon have the chance to embark on a truly immersive jungle adventure, traversing the serene waters of Pench river while enjoying breathtaking views of the reserve’s diverse wildlife.
Pench: A Proposal Worth Rs 2.90 Crore Gains Government Approval
Dr. Prabhu Nath Shukla, Field Director of PTR, shared insights into the project’s progress. He stated, “We had sent the proposal for a jungle safari by boat to the government last year. It was a Rs 2.90 crore proposal, which promptly received government approval. The tendering process for the project is on track and is expected to be approved by the state government shortly.”
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The launch of the boat safaris is slated to begin with two boats initially. It has plans to expand the fleet in response to the enthusiasm of wildlife enthusiasts and tourists. The ‘Jungle Safari on Boat’ promises a unique adventure, providing visitors with an exclusive opportunity to witness wild animals approaching the banks of Pench river to quench their thirst. Additionally, tourists will have the thrilling chance to explore Pench river, home to a thriving population of crocodiles. Furthermore, the boat safaris will offer a remarkable vantage point for observing thousands of migratory birds that flock to PTR from distant locales, offering an entirely new experience for nature lovers.
Dr. Shukla elaborated on the advantages of this novel safari experience. Dr. Shukla said, “This form of jungle safari will allow tourists to enjoy sightings of wild animals, gain insights into the aquatic life of Pench river, and observe rare bird species that are seldom seen during traditional jungle safaris by road or on elephant-back.”
Navigating the Wild: PTR’s 23-Kilometer Boat Safari Set to Launch in November
The boat safari is designed to cover a distance of 23 kilometers between Kolitmara and Navegaon Khairi. It will be offering tourists a thrilling two-and-a-half-hour journey through the heart of PTR’s wilderness. Currently, the Forest Department is conducting trials of the boat safari. A comprehensive review underway to ensure a seamless and captivating experience for visitors. It is anticipated that the boat safaris will commence in November this year.
In a conscious effort to maintain the tranquility of the jungle ecosystem, the Forest Department plans to employ special solar-powered boats. These environmentally friendly vessels will minimize noise pollution, ensuring that the serenity of the jungle remains undisturbed. To partake in this extraordinary adventure, tourists can expect to pay approximately Rs 1,500 per person,. Each boat accommodating up to 24 passengers at a time.
The introduction of boat safaris in the Pench Tiger Reserve marks a significant stride towards enhancing tourism. It is in a view preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. As Maharashtra continues to lead the charge in eco-tourism, PTR’s boat safaris promise to provide a one-of-a-kind journey into the heart of India’s wilderness, where visitors can connect with nature in an entirely novel way. This exciting development ensures that the magic of India’s tiger reserves remains accessible to all. It will be inviting adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts to explore the splendor of Pench in an unforgettable fashion.
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