IN AN apparent U-turn from its stand favouring a gradual phase-out of tourism in core tiger reserve areas,the Centre has now told the Supreme Court that a ban on tourism would cause loss of livelihood to the local population as well as endanger wildlife and forests. Almost a month after the court imposed the ban,the Centre has sought its permission for a further review of guidelines on conservation of tigers. The affidavit by the government,which was filed on Tuesday,will be taken up by the Supreme Court on Wednesday. In its order on July 24,the court had said that core areas of wildlife reserves be kept out of bounds for tourists till it finalised guidelines for in and around such protected areas after considering the governments norms. The Centres affidavit says: State governments have expressed concern that many local people depend on tourism for their livelihood and hence the stoppage of tourism in core areas would result in loss of income,leading to discontent which may be a threat to wildlife,forests. The National Tiger Conservation Authority is a co-signatory to the affidavit. Banning of tourism would also deprive citizens of an opportunity to appreciate national heritage,adds the affidavit. The government has told the court that it wishes to review guidelines pertaining to eco-tourism in and around protected areas after consulting all stakeholders.
