Shimla to have wildlife crime control wing to check poaching

Kuldeep Chauhan

Tribune News Service

Shimla, June 8

Shimla will soon have a wildlife crime control wing to check the poaching of snow leopards, pheasants, musk deer and bears.

To make a quick buck, poachers target the rare species in the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), Kullu, and Pin Valley National Park, Spiti.

The GHNP authorities burnt as many as 30 leopard hides and antlers ceased by the Forest Department on World Environment Day.

“We burnt the hides in the presence of villagers at the GHNP and pledged not to harm the wildlife,” said BS Rana, director, GHNP.

“The department will not spare those who kill animals to make various products,” said SS Negi, Chief Wildlife Warden.

“To wing will be headed by the DIG-rank officer who will coordinate with the Forest Department,” Negi said.

The number of snow leopards has increased in the Pin valley. Negi said experts from Sweden were coming for radio-collaring of leopards to ascertain their exact number, he added.

The poaching threatens wildlife in the state. The recent two cases of poaching in Chamba have left the department worried.

“The poachers hunt for pheasants, musk deer and other animals in and around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries,” said Ranjiv Bharti, convener of an NGO.