WEBDESK: The Punjab Chief Minister (CM), Maryam Nawaz, has announced the establishment of courts dedicated to wildlife protection. These courts will address crimes such as animal cruelty and the illegal possession of wildlife.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted the key updates to Punjab’s wildlife protection policies In a briefing chaired by Chairman Muhammad Adnan Dogar.
The Wildlife Act of 1974 has been amended after 14 years to align with international standards, introducing stricter penalties, including fines of up to Rs5 million for violations.
These Separate courts will handle cases involving wildlife crimes, ensuring swift justice.
Moreover, a dedicated wildlife protection force will be established to safeguard animals and their habitats. A unified board named “Protected Areas and Wildlife Management” will oversee conservation projects, led by the Minister for Wildlife.
Hefty fines and stricter legal actions will deter wildlife-related crimes. For the first time, drones and modern technology will be used to monitor wildlife and conduct habitat surveys.
Additionally, specialized centers will be set up for the care, breeding, and treatment of animals. The government is also planning to promote eco-tourism by developing areas like Changa Manga, Uchali, and Bansera Gali as tourist destinations.
A Rs1.73 billion project has also been launched to promote wildlife conservation and global tourism.
In addition to this a 3D wildlife cinema, virtual zoo, and wildlife education centers are under development to educate the public about conservation. Rs60 million internship program for young conservationists is also being introduced and a dedicated helpline (1107) has been launched to report wildlife-related issues.
A state-of-the-art wildlife hospital, costing Rs1.47 billion, will be constructed to provide medical care for injured and sick animals.
The Standing Committee has praised these measures as transformative. Chairman Adnan Dogar lauded CM Maryam Nawaz and Minister Maryam Aurangzeb for their visionary efforts, saying that these initiatives are setting an example both nationally and internationally for environmental protection and wildlife conservation.
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