Srinagar, Sept 06: The Wildlife Department, in a late-evening operation on Friday, arrested four persons for allegedly attempting to hunt water birds inside Shallabugh Wetland Conservation Reserve.
According to officials, the incident took place around 6:30 PM on September 5, when a patrolling team led by Block Officer Shallabugh, Ajaz Ahmad, intercepted two boats moving suspiciously in the wetland. The team detained four persons and seized two boats, hunted birds, live cartridges, and used cartridges.
“The operation was carried out under near-dark conditions, and it was the determination of our staff that ensured the accused could not escape,” Ajaz said, praising his team’s swift response.
Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife Wetlands Kashmir), Altaf Hussain, confirmed the arrests and hailed the action as a strong message against poaching in Kashmir’s wetlands. “This late-hour operation reflects our commitment to safeguarding these internationally important habitats. Evening and morning patrols have already been intensified as the migratory bird season approaches,” he said.
Warning against illegal hunting, Hussain added: “Anyone with bad intentions of hunting migratory birds shall be dealt with strictly in accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act.”
Officials said this was the second major success for the department this year, following a similar action in Wular Lake, where four individuals were booked for attempting to hunt water birds.
Shallabugh Wetland, a designated Ramsar site, remains a high-priority conservation zone, hosting thousands of migratory and resident birds each year. The Wildlife Department said enhanced patrolling and local community cooperation will continue to be key in protecting the fragile ecosystem.
