28-05-2025
R'bore may see Gypsy-free safari season
Jaipur: Ranthambhore National Park may undergo a significant change in the upcoming tourism season as Gypsy vehicles could be phased out.
The reason is that the model condition validity of these vehicles is set to expire in 2026 after which they will no longer be permitted for tourism operations.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Currently, tourists prefer Gypsies for park safaris due to their manoeuvrability and suitability for rugged terrain. However, unless the model condition is extended, Ranthambhore may face a Gypsy-free safari season starting Oct 1 when the new tourism cycle begins.
An official said, "The model condition for tourist vehicles is valid for 10 years. All Gypsies will reach the end of their approved term by 2026. We are exploring alternatives, but no final decision has been made yet."
S
afari vehicle drivers and owners have raised concerns and are urging forest authorities to extend the model condition for Gypsies. The Ranthambhore Vehicle Safari Owners' Union has submitted a formal memorandum to the forest department requesting an extension. However, no official decision has been made so far. At present, 556 tourism vehicles operate in Ranthambhore, including 269 Gypsies and 287 Canters.
Forest officials noted that a similar directive was earlier issued to replace old Canters with newer models. Vehicles nearing the end of their approved operational life were to be replaced, although implementation has been delayed due to the ongoing tourist season.
Adding to the challenge is the fact that Gypsy manufacturing ceased in 2016. Attempts to replace them with newer models have not been successful, as alternative tyres and designs have not performed well on the park's terrain. So far, Gypsies remain the only vehicles that operate reliably in such conditions, leaving both the forest department and vehicle operators uncertain.
