Bengaluru: The High Court (HC) has directed Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited (JLR), a Govt. entity, to provide information on method followed to allot safari vehicles to the visitors who stay at private resorts in Nagarahole and Bandipur National Parks with Tiger Reserves.

This follows an application moved by Karnataka Eco-Tourism Resorts Association in the year 2022, alleging that, those staying at private resorts are provided canter van for safari, while jeeps are provided for the guests of JLR.

Hearing the application, the Divisional Bench of Chief Justice N.V. Anjaria and Justice K.V. Aravind issued the said order, deferring the hearing to next date.

The Advocate, appearing for the applicant, informed the Court about the agreement reached between Karnataka Eco Tourism Resorts Association and the Government over providing the service of safari vehicles and other facilities. But JLR is flouting the conditions of the agreement, practicing disparity while allotting vehicles for safari. The permission for safari is being given for new resorts in violation of Government rules and Court orders.

The Advocate also appealed to the Court to issue directions to extend the fair allotment of safari vehicles and also the facilities.

Visitors at JLR are allowed safari in zones and routes with best sightings, while those at private resorts are deprived of the privilege. Hence, those accommodated at private resorts be extended equal privilege, Eco Tourism Resorts Association had demanded.