Umred sanctuary: 6 safari drivers, 6 guides suspended for 6 months for surrounding tigress and cubs

The forest department has taken strict action over the surrounding of a tigress in the Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagpur district. Safari vehicles had encircled tigress F-2 and her four cubs near the Gothangaon gate. The department has acted against 12 staff members.

Six safari drivers and six guides are affected. The department has suspended all of them for six months.

The incident took place on the 27th of last month. At around 7.45 am that day, safari vehicles surrounded tigress F-2 and her cubs, obstructing the free movement of the wild animals.

It is not the first time. Last year too, a video of the path of F-2 and her cubs being blocked went viral on social media. Four gypsy drivers and four guides were suspended then.

Taking the matter seriously, the forest department issued orders. According to the order, the drivers and guides concerned are barred from activities related to running safaris from October 1, 2026 to March 2027.

The guides and safari drivers had initially refused to accept the department's allegations and had claimed to be innocent.

According to Akshay Gajbhiye, deputy director of Pench, the staff admitted their lapse while showing the tigress. The suspensions followed. According to sources, action has been taken against 12 to 15 guides and drivers in all.

The forest department has made it clear that, along with the safety of tourists, any interference with the natural habitat of wildlife and its unhindered movement in the sanctuary will not be tolerated.

To prevent a repeat, the department is preparing to step up patrolling. It is also preparing to bring in strict guidelines for safari drivers and guides.