Subhechcha Ganguly 
The Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara district will remain closed for three months starting from today (May 1) in view of mating and nesting season of saltwater crocodiles.
This was notified by the Forest Department to keep tourists and visitors away from the sanctuary during the breeding time, said Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the park, JD Pati on Saturday.
The ban will be in force till July 31. Since the sound of the mechanised boats carrying tourists and forest officials disturbs the surroundings and makes the reptiles violent, restrictions have been imposed at Bhitarkanika, Dangamala and Ragadapati forest blocks under Bhitarkanika, said the officer.
By Anisha Ganguly
