GUWAHATI: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary reopened to visitors on October 13, with elephant safaris scheduled to begin in November, Assam's State Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah said. He added that all three of the state's major wildlife destinations are now open for the tourist season.
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Speaking on the reopening, the minister highlighted Pobitora's potential as a tourist destination. "Since it is the closest wildlife destination to Guwahati, I believe it holds immense potential," Mallabaruah said.
He said the government is working to balance tourism growth with conservation. "We are working to ensure that tourist numbers continue to grow while also preserving the local environment; our Forest Department and the local community are actively involved in this effort," he said.
On preparations for the season, the minister said additional Gypsies have been introduced this year to meet rising tourist demand. "Most importantly, elephant safaris are set to begin in November," he added. The Forest Department is currently carrying out work such as wetland cleaning, and Mallabaruah said he expects Pobitora to be fully ready for tourists by November.
Recalling the phased reopening, he said Manas reopened on October 2 and Kaziranga on October 3, followed by Pobitora on October 13. "All three major wildlife destinations are now fully open to visitors," the minister said.
