Re‑launch of the Fato and Hathidanger Eco‑zones

Starting 1 October, the Fato and Hathidanger sections of the Terai Western Forest Division are back on the tourism map after a monsoon‑induced shutdown. The forest authorities used the closure to tighten conservation protocols and upgrade visitor infrastructure.

Daily Visitor Quotas per Shift

To reduce disturbance to the resident fauna, the department has imposed firm limits on safari units per shift. In the Fato area, up to 50 gypsy‑style jeeps may operate in the morning and another 50 in the evening. Hathidanger will accommodate 25 vehicles for each morning and evening slot.

New Night‑Stay Facilities

Fato, one of the most popular zones, now offers accommodation alongside its daytime expeditions. The area houses 19 rooms spread across various formats: two tree‑house clusters (three rooms), five eco‑huts, four rooms in a heritage British‑era building, two rooms in an older structure, and five canvas‑tented cabins. All safari slots and lodging must be booked via the official online portal.

Why Phones and Cameras Are Prohibited

Divisional Forest Officer Puneet Tomar explained that banning personal recording devices – including mobile phones, covert cameras and body‑mounted rigs – helps eliminate unnecessary complaints and eases administrative workload. Removing these gadgets lets forest staff focus on wildlife protection and a smoother visitor experience.

Locker and Water Stations

Each entry gate now features drinking‑water refill stations and secure lockers for phones and cameras. Portable lockers will also be installed inside night‑stay safari vehicles, with drivers supervising their safekeeping. Carrying any recording device inside the forest is strictly forbidden.

Rapid Registration of Safari Vehicles

The department has launched an accelerated registration drive for all safari vehicles. Documents are being verified, and the process is expected to conclude within a week. Only vehicles that clear verification and display valid registration certificates will be permitted entry.

What Visitors Can Anticipate

Following a formal reopening ceremony attended by the local MLA on 1 October, tourists can once again explore the rich wildlife of Fato and Hathidanger. The updated rules – device restrictions, visitor caps, and enhanced overnight facilities – aim to balance tourism growth with the core mission of wildlife conservation.