A tiger safari in Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park turned into a harrowing experience for a group of tourists when their guide allegedly abandoned them in a tiger-infested area after their safari vehicle broke down. The incident occurred in zone 6 of the park, leaving the tourists, including women and children, stranded for approximately 90 minutes.

The safari canter, carrying the tourists, malfunctioned around 6 PM, bringing the tour to an abrupt halt. The tourists alleged that the guide, instead of assisting them, claimed he would arrange another vehicle but instead fled the scene after reportedly misbehaving with them.

Stranded in the heart of the tiger reserve, the tourists, including frightened children, were left to fend for themselves as darkness descended. Videos recorded by the stranded tourists showed children huddled together, using mobile phone flashlights in the darkness, visibly terrified. Ranthambore National Park is home to a significant tiger population, along with leopards, sloth bears, and marsh crocodiles, heightening the sense of danger and fear among the stranded group.

The tourists remained stranded from 6 PM until 7:30 PM before a rescue team arrived to escort them out of the forest.

Anoop K.R., the Field Director and Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, emphasized that the safety of visitors is the park's top priority. He assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted, and strict disciplinary action would be taken against any guide or driver found guilty of negligence. The CCF reiterated that such lapses in safety protocols would not be tolerated in the future.

This incident has brought into focus the importance of responsible and ethical wildlife tourism. Instances of negligence and unethical practices have been reported in the past, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and monitoring. In one instance, a tour guide was reported to have thrown stones at a sleeping tiger to ensure tourists got a good photograph. Concerns have also been raised regarding overcrowding, with too many vehicles converging on a single animal sighting, causing disturbance to the wildlife.

The Ranthambore incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in wildlife tourism and the critical role of guides and park authorities in ensuring the safety and well-being of tourists.