Periyar Tiger Reserve transitions to cleaner CNG buses for visitor transport

Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala is moving towards a greener transportation model by gradually replacing its diesel-powered transit fleet with compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. The reserve's visitor shuttle service, which ferries tourists along its internal routes, currently operates a combination of eight diesel buses and three newly introduced CNG vehicles.

The initiative aims to reduce air pollution and minimise the ecological footprint of tourism operations within the sanctuary. CNG vehicles produce significantly lower emissions compared to traditional diesel engines, addressing environmental concerns in a protected area that serves as a critical habitat for wildlife.

Authorities at the reserve have outlined plans to eventually phase out the entire diesel contingent, replacing all buses with CNG-powered alternatives. The transition represents part of broader efforts to balance tourism development with wildlife conservation objectives at the reserve.

Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the Western Ghats, is one of India's most visited tiger reserves and a major ecotourism destination in Kerala. The shift to cleaner fuel technology underscores growing pressure on protected areas to adopt sustainable practices while accommodating the growing number of visitors seeking wildlife experiences.