Baramulla MLA stresses need to revisit Wildlife Policy, flags issue before Estimates Committee

The MLA Baramulla, Javed Hassan Beig, has asked the Estimates Committee of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly to recommend a comprehensive review of the existing wildlife policy, particularly in view of the growing instances of wild animals straying into human settlements and posing a threat to public safety. The issue came up during discussions on forest, environment, wildlife and tribal affairs on Tuesday, with the MLA stressing the need for a comprehensive approach to deal with increasing human-wildlife conflict in Jammu and Kashmir. He said while wildlife conservation remains important, there is equally an urgent need to put in place effective mechanisms to prevent wild animals from entering residential areas and creating fear among people. While highlighting the importance of revisiting the wildlife policy, Beig said that the government should revisit the existing wildlife policy and formulate measures to strike a balance between wildlife protection and the safety of people living in populated areas where animals are now frequently venturing. The issue assumes particular significance in Baramulla, where the repeated movement of leopards in the town has triggered widespread fear among residents. For nearly 20 days, two leopards have been roaming in areas including Microwave Kanlibagh, Upper Sangri, Bowli Kanlibagh and adjoining densely populated areas. The leopard's presence has caused considerable panic, with residents, particularly children and elderly people, reluctant to venture out during the morning and evening hours. Residents said the repeated sightings have disrupted normal life in the affected areas, with many people avoiding outdoor activities and exercising extra caution while travelling through the neighbourhood. The Wildlife Department has been making efforts to locate and capture the animal. However, officials have so far been unable to trap it, with manpower constraints adding to the difficulties faced by the department. The situation has also highlighted the challenges confronting the wildlife authorities, who are required to respond to increasing human-animal encounters while simultaneously managing limited manpower and resources. The MLA Baramulla also raised concerns over the wild boars that according to him have been introduced into the area and are causing immense loss to paddy fields and orchards, and called for appropriate measures to address the ecological and public-safety concerns associated with them.