Foresters of the Kurseong forest division in Darjeeling district have identified seven spots for picnickers to stop them from entering the reserve forest areas during winter.

Sources in the department said seven designated spots within the jurisdiction of different ranges of the forest division have been identified and developed as eco-tourism spots for picnickers.

Designated spots are Dulali Eco Park, Panighata Eco Park, MM Terai Eco Park and Tipu Khola & Treeland inthe plains.

In the hills, the spots are Pine Forest & Dowhill Eco Park and Chimney Eco Tourism Spot in Kurseong, and Phuguri Trek & 360-degree View Point in Mirik.

“Every year in winter, hundreds of groups reach different locations of the forest division for picnics. But on many occasions, it has been found that groups enter reserve forest areas, including wildlife habitats. This is a violation of law. These intrusions disturb animals and make picnickers vulnerable to elephant attacks. That is why seven designated spots have been identified for people,” said Devesh Pandey, the divisional forest officer of Kurseongforest division.

In the plains, there were instances when wild animals devoured picnic food and scared people off.

An official said they would intensify patrolling to prevent people from entering reserve forest areas.

“Wastes, including plastic bags and other materials, are thrown in forests areas. Sound boxes blare all day round. These practices must stop as they disturb wild animals and pollute the forest area,”he added.

Along with patrolling, officers posted in forest ranges and beats have been asked to extensively campaign in their areas so that picnickers stay away from reserve forest areas. “Any person or group violating curbs will be punished under different sections of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and Wildlife Protection Act 1972,” said Pandey.