Ganderbal, Jan 04: From 2006 to 2022, the Kashmir region has witnessed a distressing toll in human-wildlife conflicts, with 234 lives lost and 2918 individuals left injured while the department has addressed 1051 cases during this time
Data available with Rising Kashmir revealed that the year 2022, in particular, was marked by tragic incidents that have cast a shadow over the region. Fatal leopard attacks in Uri and Boniyar, Baramulla, resulted in the loss of young lives. The conflict escalated in Boniyar, leading to the identification and killing of the responsible leopard.
Additionally, incidents involving a black bear in Ahalangadole, Kokernag, and another leopard in Gopalpora, Anantnag, have heightened concerns. Rajpora, Zachaldara and Handwara witnessed yet another tragic incident, underscoring the pressing need for action.
An examination of the conflict data from April 1 to July 1, 2022, revealed that the North Division reported 479 incidents with 3 deaths, 2 injuries, 20 animals trapped, and 56 lakhs in compensation.
The South Division documented 124 incidents with 2 deaths, 8 injuries, 14 animals trapped, and 9.5 lakhs in compensation. Shopian Division reported 168 incidents with no deaths, 3 injuries, 5 animals trapped, and 12.15 lakh in compensation.
The Central Division recorded 34 incidents with no deaths, 2 injuries, 15 animals trapped, and 4 lakhs in compensation. In the Wetlands Division, 90 incidents resulted in no deaths, 2 injuries, 1 animal trapped, and 1 lakh in compensation.
The cumulative impact of 895 incidents during this period resulted in 5 deaths and 17 injuries, underscoring the need for comprehensive measures to address the escalating human-wildlife conflicts. The financial toll of this conflict is starkly evident, with a total compensation requirement of Rs 71.35 lakh.
The latest Ex-Gratia/Compensation report for November 2023 reveals a backlog of 60 pending cases out of 136 reported cases. The financial toll of the conflict is staggering, with a total compensation requirement of Rs 149.95 lakh for injuries and deaths.
Specific regions within Kashmir faced varying degrees of impact. The Central region reported 8 injuries and 2 deaths, requiring a compensation of Rs 11.90 lakh. North Shopian witnessed 60 injuries and 8 deaths, demanding a compensation of Rs 38.30 lakh. The Wetlands region reported 6 injuries and 98 deaths, necessitating a compensation of Rs 109.85 lakh.
The gravity of the situation is further highlighted by the partial settlement of 10 death cases in the Wetlands region, with Rs 2 lakh disbursed in accordance with court orders, leaving Rs 1 lakh pending awaiting necessary documentation.
Authorities grapple with the challenge of finding a balance between wildlife conservation and safeguarding human lives. The data underscores the need for proactive measures and policies to manage these conflicts effectively.
