Baripada, June 13: Authorities of the Similipal Tiger Reserve have decided to keep the sanctuary closed from June 16 in view of the arrival of monsoon.

The two authorised gates at Pithabata and Gudugudia will remain closed for four months.

"We have decided to keep the sanctuary closed for four months from June 16. It is an annual practice we follow as most of the spots become inaccessible due to the rain. It is risky to allow tourists in, during the period," said STR deputy director Ajit Satpathy.

"Besides, the restriction has also been imposed in view of the mating season of the animals and birds. The presence of tourists may disturb their mating. Besides, repair and restoration of the damages inflicted during rains will also take about four months," Satpathy said.

Development works at the entry and exit points and other important places inside the sanctuary are also taken up during this time.

Since the reopening of the sanctuary last year, more than 25,000 tourists, including 30 foreign nationals, have visited the place to watch the variety of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tigers.

"Every year, the sanctuary remains closed from June till November. This year, too, we are expecting to reopen the sanctuary by November. However, it depends on the rain and monsoon damages," said a tiger reserve official.