Narok County Government has banned the use of private cars in the iconic Maasai Mara National Game Reserve.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, the Office of the Governor said only select vehicles will be allowed access to the game reserve.
The county government stated that the prohibition has been necessitated by a series of compelling factors.
Among a few concerns, the devolved unit says private vehicles in Maasai Mara have led to environmental degradation and misconduct throughout the park. The government says there have been numerous reports of drivers and occupants of private vehicles disregarding reserve regulations.
“Escalating cases of environmental degradation within the reserve premises, characterized by littering, noise pollution, and unauthorized gatherings (Kupiga Sherehe and partying), all contravening the stipulated reserve protocols,” read part of the statement.
Further, the county government says private vehicles frequently divert from designated paths, creating unauthorized routes and aggravating environmental problems.
The county government also added that often rangers have had to rein in vehicles that strayed off the tracks or over-ambitious safari enthusiasts who dare to drive close to the animals.
Some engaged in the frequent result of off-road excursions which were an inconvenience because that would later lead to vehicular entrapment necessitating extended rescue operations into the night.
Ban on private vehicles
Government officials at Narok County emphasized that sanctioned vehicles are accompanied by qualified guides who are well-versed in the park’s protocols to ensure a safe and compliant experience for all visitors.
Previously, private cars with the capability to manoeuvre the terrain were allowed for motorists who wished to drive themselves accompanied by a guide.
All cars are expected to stick to the established vehicle tracks to avoid interfering with the ecosystem and also endangering their lives.
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