Kanha Park visiting schedule changed

Mandla, MP, Aug 11 (UNI) Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh will be reopened after monsoon season on October 15 in 2009 as against October 1 this year.

Announcing this at a press conference here yesterday, Forest Minister Vijay Shah said that earlier the national park was kept closed for visitors from June 21 to September 30, but a few years ago, the ban was enforced up to October 31. It was later preponed to September 30 under the pressure of the hotel lobby.

Since October was mainly considered the breeding season for wild animals, experts suggested to keep the park closed for visitors in October, Mr Shah said.

After visiting the park spread over Mandla and adjoining districts, Mr Shah said Bison and stag, which were facing extinction, would be shifted from Kanha to other national parks for its better upkeep and protection. The stable population of stags was a matter of concern, he pointed out, adding that experts were being consulted.

All aspects would be taken into count before transferring tiger cubs from Kanha to Bhopal's Van Vihar, he added.

UNI XC-SP PK NS1303