Rajasthan’s iconic Ranthambore National Park is set to transform the safari experience with a total prohibition on mobile phones, mandated by the Supreme Court. The Forest Department’s latest policy seeks to minimize human impact on the park’s rich biodiversity.
Speaking on the matter, Sanjeev Sharma from the Ranthambore Tiger Project noted that the ban addresses key threats to wildlife. Tourists’ obsession with capturing content on phones has long disturbed animals’ natural patterns and heightened accident risks.
The court’s instructions are clear: no shouting, no video recording, no selfies, and no getting too close to beasts. Such actions not only stress the animals but also lead to traffic jams of jeeps, hampering free movement in the wilderness.
In tiger territories like Ranthambore, where conservation hangs in the balance, these interventions can have lasting effects. Past attempts to restrict guides’ phone use failed amid backlash, but this universal ban backed by judicial authority changes the game.
This initiative promotes mindful tourism, fostering a deeper connection with nature minus digital distractions. Park authorities expect it to enhance safety and boost long-term wildlife protection, setting a precedent for other reserves across India.