Bagaha/Patna: Continuous rainfall triggered by Cyclone Montha has forced the temporary closure of the jungle safari at Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in West Champaran, Bihar. Forest officials said the decision was made after heavy rain made the forest’s unpaved roads dangerously slippery, posing serious safety risks to tourists.
“All safari vehicles have been parked in the garage until further notice,” confirmed Ranger Amit Kumar, explaining that mud and rocky stretches within the reserve had become treacherous. “Vehicles could get stuck or slip during the safari, risking tourists’ safety. The closure is a precautionary step.”
Officials said the safari will resume only after the weather improves and an inspection confirms the routes are safe for vehicles. “Once the paths are restored and approved by senior officers, the safari will reopen,” Kumar added.
The VTR safari, which had recently reopened to visitors on October 23 after the monsoon break, had seen a surge of tourists spotting tigers, leopards, wild boars, and deer. However, relentless rains over the past two days have once again brought activities to a standstill.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for Bhojpur, Bettiah, Buxar, and Kishanganj districts, along with warnings for 24 other districts, including Patna. Winds reaching 65 km/h, along with thunder and lightning, are expected through the weekend. Weather conditions are likely to stabilise only after November 3.
