Bandipur Night Ban: Government Moves Toward Long-Term Tunnel Solution

The long-running issue concerns the night traffic ban on the stretch of National Highway 766 that passes through Bandipur National Park , a protected tiger reserve between Kerala and Karnataka. The restriction, in place since 2009 and upheld by courts, was introduced to prevent wildlife deaths caused by vehicle movement at night, when animals are most active. However, residents and transporters from Wayanad have consistently raised concerns that the ban disrupts connectivity, delays medical and emergency travel, and affects trade, tourism, and daily life. In response to representations from Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra , Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has constituted an expert committee to study the feasibility of constructing a tunnel as an alternative route that could allow movement without disturbing the forest ecosystem.

Alongside the tunnel proposal, the Centre has approved ₹105 crore under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund for four road projects in Wayanad, with a Union Ministry consultant assigned to monitor implementation. Special attention is also being given to the landslide-prone Thamarassery Churam , where experts have recommended urgent and long-term slope stabilization and safety measures, and work to improve the dangerous hairpin bends is targeted for completion by February 2027. While the tunnel idea offers a possible long-term solution, it faces significant environmental clearances, wildlife corridor concerns, geological studies, and high construction costs, meaning it is not an immediate fix. In the short term, authorities are expected to rely on road safety upgrades, landslide mitigation, and scientific studies, balancing regional development needs with conservation priorities in one of India’s most ecologically sensitive forest corridors.