Neglect hampers Haripur conservation

The Haripur Wildlife Division — one of the most strategically important conservation units in Hazara — is facing a crisis due to chronic staff shortages and lack of basic resources. Despite being upgraded from a sub-division to a full division in April 2021, the department remains neglected and underfunded.

Covering five game reserves, two waterfowl habitats, the ecologically significant Bher area (home to goral), and the Makhniyal Protected Area—designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest — the division plays a critical role in regional biodiversity protection.

However, it is currently operating with just 11 personnel: one Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), one Sub-Divisional Forest Officer (SDFO), one deputy ranger, one head watcher, and seven watchers. Two of these watchers are posted in Khanpur and Ghazi tehsils respectively.

Shockingly, seven sanctioned watcher posts remain vacant, and the division lacks even a basic security guard. Two official vehicles are out of service, leaving the department with no transport for patrolling or field inspections — severely hampering its ability to safeguard wildlife.

Conservationists have voiced alarm over the situation, noting that Haripur, with the highest number of hunting grounds in Hazara, draws bird hunters year-round. The lack of operational readiness poses a direct threat to the region's delicate ecosystems.

Citizens and environmental stakeholders are urging Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Special Assistant for Forests and Wildlife Pir Musawir Khan, and Secretary Shahid Zaman to take immediate action. They are calling for urgent provision of staff, vehicles, and infrastructure.