Chandigarh Takes Action on Human-Wildlife Conflict with Special Workshop
The Chandigarh administration's forest and wildlife department held a crucial workshop on Monday. This event took place at the Botanical Garden in Sarangpur. Officials organized it following clear directions from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Ministry Directive Sparks Statewide Action
The workshop stems from a significant decision made last December. The MoEFCC's parliamentary consultative committee met on December 18, 2025. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired that important meeting.
Committee members resolved that all states and union territories must conduct similar workshops. They emphasized the need for active participation from various stakeholders. Public representatives should also join these discussions to find practical solutions.
Forest Official Highlights Progress and Challenges
Saurabh Kumar delivered the keynote address at the workshop. He serves as Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden for Chandigarh. Kumar explained that his department is actively working to enhance forest landscapes.
"We are improving wildlife habitats both qualitatively and quantitatively," Kumar stated. He referenced the latest India State of Forest Report during his presentation. The report shows a noticeable increase in Chandigarh's forest and tree cover.
However, Kumar stressed the complex challenge of balancing development with conservation. He identified several key factors driving human-wildlife conflicts. Population growth continues to put pressure on natural spaces. Land-use changes and habitat fragmentation further complicate the situation.
Substantial Rescue Operations and Support Systems
The forest department has been remarkably busy with wildlife incidents. Kumar revealed an impressive statistic. His team has conducted over 15,000 wildlife rescue operations in the past ten years alone.
Chandigarh has established a compensation committee to assist affected residents. This committee operates under the Union Territory's Deputy Commissioner. It provides financial support to victims of man-animal conflicts.
Comprehensive Initiatives Underway
Authorities are implementing multiple strategies to address these challenges. Current initiatives include:
- Capacity building programs for forest staff
- Establishment of a dedicated wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre
- Identification of specific conflict hotspots across the territory
- Efforts to reduce emergency response times
- Development of early warning systems for communities
- Public awareness campaigns about shared responsibility
Mayor Emphasizes Ecological Sensitivity
Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla addressed the gathering about broader implications. She explained that human-wildlife conflict creates serious challenges for the city. These challenges span social, economic, and governance dimensions.
Babla highlighted Chandigarh's unique geographical position. The city finds itself surrounded by ecologically sensitive areas. The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary lies nearby. The Shivalik foothills also border the union territory. This proximity makes conflict management particularly important for Chandigarh's future.
The workshop represents a proactive step toward addressing these complex issues. It brings together experts, officials, and community representatives. Their collective goal is to find sustainable solutions that protect both people and wildlife.
