MAY 19: In a landmark step toward mitigating increasing human-wildlife conflict in the region, Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, today flagged off a fleet of 10 specialized Wildlife Rescue Vehicles in Jammu. The new initiative is aimed at enhancing rapid response capabilities in high-risk zones and ensuring both human safety and wildlife conservation.
The event took place at the Forest Department headquarters, where Minister Rana emphasized the urgent need to modernize the infrastructure used for wildlife rescue operations. “Human-wildlife conflict is a pressing issue that threatens not only human life and property but also endangers the ecological balance. These vehicles will serve as the frontline defense in resolving such conflicts efficiently and humanely,” the Minister stated.
The 10 newly inducted vehicles are outfitted with advanced equipment, including tranquilizing gear, animal restraining tools, mobile cages, and GPS systems. They will be deployed in areas with frequent wildlife sightings and incidents, such as border villages and forest fringes in Jammu and adjoining districts.
With the growing encroachment into forest areas and habitat disruption due to urban expansion, wild animals like leopards, elephants, and bears have increasingly been straying into human settlements. These confrontations often lead to casualties, property damage, and retaliatory killings of wild animals. The new fleet is expected to reduce response time dramatically and enable safer relocation of animals back to their natural habitats.
Forest officials and rescue teams have been trained to handle various rescue scenarios, from animal distress calls to rapid intervention in populated areas. The initiative also includes community awareness campaigns to educate the public on safe practices when encountering wildlife.
Minister Rana reiterated the government’s commitment to balancing development with ecological preservation. “We are investing in resources and training to ensure our response mechanisms are scientific, humane, and effective,” he said.
The launch of the Wildlife Rescue Vehicle Fleet marks a significant step in Jammu and Kashmir’s broader wildlife management strategy and reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
