Protecting Deosai bears

The Deosai National Park in Islamabad has long been a sanctuary for the iconic brown bears, providing them a haven amidst the breathtaking landscapes. However, recent revelations of a stagnant bear population in the region, hovering around 75 individuals for the past three to four years, casts a shadow over the future of these magnificent creatures.

These bears are vital to the park’s ecology and impact other species and maintain the natural balance. A decrease in their numbers might disrupt this delicate harmony, affecting various plants and animals. The situation also raises concerns about the park’s overall health. Deosai, known for its pristine environment, may be facing challenges like habitat degradation. To address this, we must consider comprehensive wildlife conservation efforts. The problem extends beyond the bears’ appeal as it is equally important to preserve the park’s biodiversity through strategies like habitat protection and community involvement. Human-wildlife conflicts, exacerbated by increased grazing and tourism, threaten the bears and emphasise the need for a balanced coexistence. Equipping bears with GPS collars is a hopeful step in understanding their behaviour and challenges but this alone will only do so much, as this scientific approach not only helps address bear-specific issues but also calls for broader conservation efforts. A structured policy framework is essential to address various challenges faced by Pakistan’s wildlife, including habitat loss, poaching and human-wildlife conflicts.

Pakistan’s diverse ecosystems are home to a rich variety of wildlife, each playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. However, the absence of a comprehensive national animal conservation policy poses a significant threat to these species and their habitats. Such a policy would provide a roadmap for sustainable conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of endangered species and biodiversity.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 16^th, 2023.

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