DAR ES SALAAM, March 11 (Xinhua) -- The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) on Wednesday issued an urgent public notice, urging tourism stakeholders to avoid crossing flooded rivers and roads in Serengeti National Park, as severe flooding swept away several vehicles and raised concerns about missing individuals.
TATO said heavy rains have caused flooding in parts of the Serengeti, creating dangerous conditions for tour operators, guides, and visitors traveling through the world-renowned wildlife reserve.
In a statement, TATO Chairman Wilbard Chambulo urged all tour operators, drivers, and guides to prioritize safety and refrain from attempting to cross flooded roads under any circumstances.
"No itinerary, transfer, or schedule is worth risking the lives of guests, guides, or drivers," Chambulo said.
He advised tourism operators to turn back when encountering flooded roads, wait for water levels to subside, or coordinate with lodges and other operators to identify safer travel alternatives.
The association also called on tourism stakeholders to immediately share the safety notice with teams operating in the Serengeti to prevent potential accidents.
Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of Africa's most famous wildlife destinations and attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, particularly during the annual wildebeest migration.
