Authorities declare Wildlife Reserves in Kashmir as "out of bounds" for public

Srinagar, Mar 01: The authorities have declared Wetland Reserves in the Kashmir Division as out of bounds for public in view of the migratory season and warned of strict action.

In a public notice, a copy of which lies with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the Wildlife Protection Department Kashmir Division said that it is reiterated that in exercise of powers vested in terms of the Wildlife Protection Act, the protected areas and adjoining areas falling under the jurisdiction of Wetlands Division viz Hokersar WLR, Hygam WLR, Shallabugh WLR, Mirgund WLR, Chattlum WLR, Fashkoori WLR, Manibugh WLR and Kranchoo WLR are declared out of bounds for the general masses without valid permission in view of the migratory season.

"Any person found venturing inside these Wetland Conservation Reserve illegally without valid permission shall be dealt with sternly under the relevant provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972," it added.