Sambar dies in Nangal amid rising poaching concerns

A sambar deer died in Nangal last night after it entered an HP petrol station while allegedly being chased by poachers.

The incident has triggered widespread concern among local residents, who say poaching attempts have been rising in the region despite heavy police deployment for the ongoing 350th martyrdom anniversary events of Guru Tegh Bahadur.

According to sources, the sambar, fleeing from poachers, ran into the petrol station premises and collided with structures inside the building, sustaining serious injuries. Petrol station employees reportedly alerted wildlife authorities immediately, but by the time the rescue team arrived, the animal had succumbed to its injuries.

The incident has highlighted the growing vulnerability of wildlife in and around Nangal. With extensive green zones belonging to National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) and Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), the area has increasingly become a refuge for wild animals such as sambar, nilgai, and wild boar. However, shrinking forest habitats due to human interference have brought these animals closer to human settlements and, consequently, poachers.

Sources in the area revealed that poachers have become more brazen in recent months, entering Nangal town itself.

CISF personnel guarding NFL installations had earlier informed wildlife officials about suspected poachers seen roaming in an open jeep with guns in the vicinity. The presence of armed individuals in such sensitive zones has further alarmed residents.

DFO Wildlife Ropar, Monica Yadav, confirmed that poaching activity typically rises during winters. “In winter, incidents of poaching increase, so I have already directed my staff to conduct night patrols,” she said. Regarding the sambar’s death, Yadav stated, “I will take up the matter with the police so that a case is registered against unidentified poachers.”

Field staff of the wildlife department, while talking to The Tribune on the condition of anonymity, voiced frustration over the lack of resources needed to deal with the increasing threat. Several officials pointed out that they lacked adequate vehicles and equipment for night patrols, making it difficult to respond quickly to reports of poaching.

Residents are shocked that poachers could allegedly move openly with guns despite the region witnessing one of the highest police deployments in recent months for the 350th martyrdom anniversary commemorations.