In a significant move addressing the escalating tension between humans and wildlife, forest authorities in Uttarakhand have sanctioned measures to capture, treat, or eliminate a total of 83 wild animals over a six-month period. This decision comes in direct response to a surge in dangerous encounters reported from various regions of the state.
Official Nod for Wildlife Management
The critical permission, targeting 65 leopards and 18 bears, is valid from July 25 to December 31. The information was formally presented and discussed during the 22nd meeting of the Uttarakhand State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) on Tuesday. The board is chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Officials revealed that action has already been initiated under this mandate, with one leopard being eliminated in the Pauri forest division following the grant of approval. This underscores the immediate implementation of the board's decision in high-risk zones.
Conflict Hotspots and Proposed Study
Detailing the geographic spread of incidents, forest department data indicated that the Almora forest division reported the highest number of leopard-related cases at 17, followed by Terai West with 6 cases. Regarding bear conflicts, the Pauri division recorded 4 incidents, while Nanda Devi division reported 3.
In light of the increasing human-bear conflicts, the board members were informed that the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has been engaged to conduct a dedicated study on bears in Uttarakhand. This research aims to provide scientific insights for long-term management strategies.
Balancing Act: Safety and Conservation
Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that the safety of human life and property, alongside wildlife protection, remains a top priority for the state government. He issued directives to ensure the Wildlife Coordination Committee, led by district magistrates, remains active at the district level. He also called for the swift completion of hotspot mapping for sensitive districts, blocks, and villages.
Providing updates on past decisions, Head of Forest Force Ranjan Kumar Mishra stated that several projects received clearance from the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife. These include:
- The redevelopment of Chaurasi Kutiya.
- The first phase of reconstruction for the Mansadevi temple and its approach road damaged in a disaster.
- The Rishikesh–Neelkanth Mahadev ropeway project.
- The revival of the Laldhang–Chillarkhal forest motorway.
Furthermore, the board approved nine proposals related to forest land transfer for infrastructure like waterlines and motorways. Additionally, 22 proposals concerning minor mineral extraction within 10 km of protected areas will be forwarded to the National Board for Wildlife for final clearance.
Summarizing the meeting's intent, Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal said the collective decisions strive to achieve a delicate balance between wildlife conservation and human safety, thereby strengthening overall wildlife management in Uttarakhand.
