Kendrapara: The Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara district will remain closed for three months, informed Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Jagyandatta Pati.
Reportedly, the park will remain closed from today till July 31.
The ban on entry has been imposed in view of mating and nesting season of saltwater crocodiles.
Hence, the tourists and visitors need to be kept away from the sanctuary during the breeding time, added Pati.
DFO also said that as the sound of the mechanised boats, who carry tourists and forest officials, disturbs the surroundings and makes the reptiles violent, the restrictions have been imposed at Bhitarkanika, Dangamala and Ragadapati forest blocks under Bhitarkanika.
The mother crocodiles lay their eggs after the mating period following which they protect the egg shells until the baby is born. During this time, the mother crocodiles are more likely to get violent and attack.
Meanwhile, Rajnagar forest officials have informed the local villagers on the banks of the river near Bhitarkanika to make their movements cautiously.
Notably, forest guards have been instructed to keep vigil on the eggs as wild animals like snakes, wild boars, fishing cats destroy the eggs.
Ms Kalinga