Govt acts against keeping protected wildlife as pets

Decision prompted by video of dog-bear fight in Sahiwal

LAHORE:

The Punjab government has announced stringent measures against individuals keeping protected wildlife animals and birds as pets.

According to the directive, species listed under Schedule III of the Punjab Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation & Management) Act, 1974, are strictly prohibited from being kept as pets.

Among the protected birds are species such as the whistling tail, swan, crane and bustard. Additionally, mammals including black bears, leopards, mountain foxes, and deer are also prohibited from being kept as pets under the Act.

The decision was prompted by a viral video depicting a dog-bear fight in the suburbs of Sahiwal.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb issued clear instructions in response to the alarming footage, emphasizing the need to uphold wildlife protection laws.

The circulation of the video on social media sparked widespread concern among wildlife enthusiasts and activists.

Moving forward, the Punjab government is committed to taking strict legal action against any individuals found violating the laws pertaining to the protection of wildlife.

Enforcement efforts will be intensified to ensure compliance and safeguard the welfare of protected species across the region.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 29^th, 2024.