Jaipur: The cost of elephant rides at Amer Fort has been reduced to Rs1,500 per tourist, effective Nov 15, sparking protests from elephant owners who argue this change will lead to financial hardship.
President of Elephant Village Development Committee Ballu Khan, criticised the decision, as abrupt and lacking consultation. "The rate was raised to Rs 2,500 only recently after 12 years, which helped cover expenses. It costs us Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 daily to maintain an elephant, but now we will receive only Rs 1,250 per ride—insufficient to meet costs," he said.
President of Elephant Owners Development Committee Abdul Aziz also opposed the decision. He said, "Tourists had no issues with the previous rates. This change, however, will strain our finances. Additionally, a private farm with nine elephants operates without government authorization, charging foreign tourists Rs 25,000 for rides, which is unlawful."
Aziz alleged collusion between the private farm and certain officials, who he claims aim to undermine traditional elephant owners—many of whom have carried on this occupation for generations. Currently, around 100 authorised elephant owners operate at Amer Fort and Hathigaon with about 65 elephants.
Elephant owners warn that the rate cut threatens their livelihoods. "Our families have been in this profession for generations, and this change affects our income. If our concerns aren't addressed, we will approach the high court on Monday," Abdul said.
Tourism Secretary Ravi Jain explained that the reduction aimed to ease financial burdens on local tourists. "The rate was initially Rs 1,100, but the sudden increase to Rs 2,500 was costly for locals, risking a decline in rides. This decision was made through mutual agreement."
Notably, on Oct 1, 2024, the ride rate was raised from Rs 1,100 to Rs 2,500, but the Archaeology and Tourism Department decided on Friday to reduce it to Rs 1,500. Of each ride fee, owners receive Rs 1,250, with remaining amounts allocated to travel agents, entry fees, maintenance, and welfare funds.