Punjab to enforce 'zero-tolerance policy' against illegal hunting of falcons, quails

Field officers to launch synchronized public awareness campaigns using electronic, social media platforms

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Enforcing a "zero-tolerance" policy against illegal hunting of falcons and quails, the Punjab Wildlife Department will be deploying newly trained Wildlife Rangers across the province under Secretary Forests, Mudassir Riaz Malik.

Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi chaired a meeting on Wednesday at the Lahore Zoo to review and finalize strategy. 

Officials noted that the illegal hunting of falcons and quails in Punjab has led to a sharp decline in the population of these rare bird species.

Immediate FIRs (First Information Reports) will be lodged against offenders, and landowners found complicit in allowing illegal hunting on their property and will also face legal consequences.

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All field officers and staff were instructed to maintain full vigilance at all times during the hunting season.

All deputy chief Wildlife Rangers were directed to submit daily reports on violations and enforcement actions. It was decided during the meeting that the respective deputy wildlife chief ranger would be held responsible for complaints pertaining to netting or trapping of falcons or quails. 

The aim is to educate public about the ecological damage caused by illegal hunting and to discourage such practices. Dedicated raid teams will be established in their respective regions to monitor and act on any illegal activity.

Read More: Migratory bird numbers plummet in Pakistan

Field officers will launch synchronized public awareness campaigns across Punjab using electronic and social media platforms.

The meeting was attended via video link by all deputy chief Wildlife Rangers from across the province, along with assistant chief Wildlife Rangers and senior Wildlife Rangers.

The department also announced that officers demonstrating exceptional performance during the hunting season will be rewarded accordingly.

While the Wildlife Department's latest efforts mark a serious commitment to wildlife conservation, the success of this campaign hinges on public cooperation, awareness, and effective enforcement of the law.