OOTY: The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) administration has planned for an eco-friendly-cum- noise-free Deepavali around the jungles to make sure that the deafening noise of crackers and glowing aerial fireworks do not affect the wild animals in and around MTR.
Stating this, deputy director of the MTR, Srikant, said that there will be restrictions around the MTR limits and its fringes to burst crackers during Deepavali.
Patrolling by forest staff will be intensified to see that people and tourists abide by the the wildlife life protection laws, he noted.
Stating that the MTR administration is soliciting co-operation from the people living in jungle hamlets around MTR and tourists visiting the area to keep off from bursting deafening crackers, Srikant said that the sound of the crackers would not only irritate wild animals, but also drive away the birds in the forest.
Hence, in order to ensure the safety and tranquility in the jungles, foresters will act tough.
Tourists staying in hotels and lodges in the MTR periphery and in the buffer zone limits, should refrain from bursting crackers, he said and warned that strict action will be taken against those who try to disturb the jungle atmosphere by violating forest rules.
