Avoiding theft: Security demanded for wildlife park

DFO says resources needed to make improvements at the premises.

LAKKI MARWAT: Authorities in Lakki Marwat have been urged to increase security at the wildlife park constructed in Manjiwala area on the Indus Highway.

Crane Conservation Center and Wildlife Park, Lakki Marwat was established over 225 kanals of land situated along the Indus Highway. The park houses precious birds and animals including deer, peacocks, cranes and ducks, offering a refreshing excursion for people of the district.

The boundary wall, however, is so low even a minor can scale it. Hence, several incidents of theft have been reported. Some time ago, unidentified thieves tied the watchman of the park up and stole three birds.

The case was registered and the accused were later caught. Police also recovered feathers of the birds from their houses. The accused were subsequently released on bail and the case is still pending in court.

Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife) Abdul Haleem Marwat said proposals from the improvement of the wildlife park have been sent to the government. He added a solar system should also be installed so that availability of water and light can be ensured at the premises.

Marwat said Rs80 million was earlier approved for the development of the park, but the amount was later revised to Rs18 million. “The government should provide resources to erect a shed and other structures for parking of vehicles and sitting area for visitors.”

The DFO said the boundary wall was six to seven feet high, but present circumstances warranted a higher wall and installation of a fence. “We need light at night to avoid theft and robberies in the future.”

The DFO said there are only five regular staffers at the park while five others are kept on daily wages for the park’s upkeep.

He said they needed 20 to 25 workers for proper maintenance. Marwat added a PC-1 mentioning all the requirements needed for the development and improvement of the park has been prepared.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 29^th, 2015.