Supreme Court clears road for country’s first night safari in Lucknow’s Kukrail Reserve Forest

India is set to establish its first night safari following the Supreme Court's approval for the project at Lucknow's Kukrail Reserve Forest. The apex court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to adhere to all conditions set by statutory authorities and secure prior clearances before commencing work.

The decision came after the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) granted conditional approval. The state government had already obtained permissions from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The Supreme Court's nod was necessary due to a February 19, 2024, order mandating prior court permission for establishing any zoo or safari.

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The state has agreed to abide by all conditions recommended by the CEC. In view of the fact that the CZA and MoEFCC have granted approval for establishment of night safari, we allow the present application.

The bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, allowed the state to proceed based on the CEC's recommendations, provided all conditions are met. The court emphasized that any breach of these conditions would be viewed seriously. Periodic reports from the CEC Member-Secretary will monitor the project's execution. The state also received permission for necessary tree felling within the reserve forest area.

This development places India among nations like Singapore, China, Thailand, and Indonesia that already offer night safari experiences. The project was part of a larger application that also addressed objections raised by environmental activists regarding the diversion of forest land for non-forestry activities. The state's proposal includes relocating the Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park to the Kukrail Forest Area, citing a lack of expansion space at its current city-center location. The government anticipates the night safari will boost tourism, create local jobs, and enhance wildlife viewing experiences.

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Any breach of conditions will be viewed seriously.