HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT| Div Com Kashmir calls for coordinated efforts to tackle attacks

Srinagar, Apr 18:   In the wake of rising incidents of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC), Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri Thursday impressed on orchestrating well-knitted strategy and making coordinated efforts to tackle the attacks by wild animals, especially by leopards and bears across Kashmir.

In this regard, the divisional commissioner convened a meeting which was attended by the Additional Chief Conservator of Forests, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, Regional Wildlife Warden, and conservators of forests.

While elaborating a slew of measures to address the issue, the divisional commissioner emphasised on filtration of information regarding sighting of wild animals to curb rumors and disinformation so the wildlife teams remain focused and the resources do not get overburdened. It was given that out of total calls received by the wildlife department regarding the presence of leopard or other animals, ninety percent calls were based on rumors.

Stressing on adopting a proactive approach, Div Com exhorted on creating a centralized helpline number for receiving the first hand information for quick response without wasting time.