Supreme Court Approves India's First Night Safari in Lucknow
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The Supreme Court has given its nod for establishing the country's first night safari at Lucknow's Kukrail Reserve Forest. This is significant as it sets a precedent for wildlife tourism and conservation projects in India.
Background
The Uttar Pradesh government had obtained approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC). However, a Supreme Court order of February 19, 2024 mandated that no final approval for any zoo or safari can be granted without prior court permission.
Key facts
The Supreme Court approved the country's first night safari at Kukrail Reserve Forest in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
The approval was given on an application by the UP government after obtaining conditional approval from the Central Empowered Committee (CEC).
The court bench was headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.
The UP government had already secured approvals from CZA and MoEFCC.
The court allowed the project subject to compliance with all conditions recommended by the CEC.
The CEC Member-Secretary will conduct periodic visits and submit reports to the court.
The court warned that any breach of conditions will be viewed seriously.
The project was pending due to a February 19, 2024 Supreme Court order requiring prior court permission for establishing any zoo or safari.
Prelims pointers
- Night safari location: Kukrail Reserve Forest, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Approving bodies: Central Zoo Authority (CZA), Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Central Empowered Committee (CEC)
- Supreme Court bench: CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana
- Date of order: July 16, 2026
- Related court order: February 19, 2024 mandating prior court approval for zoos/safaris
Mains angles
- GS3 Environment: Wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism
- GS2 Judiciary: Role of Supreme Court in environmental clearances
- GS3 Economy: Eco-tourism as a revenue source