Prompts Urgent Government Intervention to Safeguard Communities and Biodiversity
Fahim Mattoo
Srinagar: The mutually beneficial interaction between humans and wildlife in Kashmir is facing a significant obstacle in the wake of many concerning leopard sightings. In the last few months, valleys have seen a number of upsetting events, including numerous documented incidents of leopard attacks. One terrifying incident that occurred in the Ganderbal area on April 4th involved a leopard attacking a man, which caused terror and a panicked reaction from onlookers. Unsettling video that went viral showed people desperately trying to repel the leopard with sticks, incited uproar and raised important issues regarding coexistence.
Reputable wildlife rescuer Aliya Mir said, “These incidents highlight the intricate dynamics of habitat loss, human encroachment, and wildlife conservation efforts in Kashmir.” “The relentless march of urbanisation and deforestation has encroached upon leopard habitats, pushing them closer to human settlements in search of sustenance and shelter.”
The grim toll of human-wildlife conflicts in Kashmir between 2006 and 2022 is revealed by data; 234 people lost their lives and 2918 were injured, forcing authorities to handle 1051 instances during that time. As a result, the government of Kashmir has put in place a number of measures to reduce tensions and protect both people and animals. To maintain important habitats and encourage safe wildlife migration, initiatives include creating protected areas and wildlife corridors.
“Moreover, community-based conservation programs empower local residents to actively engage as stewards of their natural surroundings,” added Mr. Rahim Malik, a conservationist. “Through education, training, and incentives, communities are encouraged to embrace practices that foster coexistence while ensuring safety,” Yet, addressing the root causes demands more robust measures, including stricter enforcement against illegal activities like hunting and deforestation. Sustainable land use practices must also be promoted to mitigate habitat degradation and fragmentation.”
The protection of communities and wildlife must be given top priority in government programs as Kashmir strikes this precarious balance, stressed environmental policy Aliya further said. “By fostering mutual understanding and harmony, Kashmir can preserve its diverse biodiversity while securing the well-being of its inhabitants for generations.”
North Shopian reported 60 injuries and 8 fatalities in 2023–2024; this resulted in a total compensation requirement of Rs 38.30 lakh. In the meantime, the Wetlands area reported 98 fatalities and 6 injuries, requiring Rs 109.85 lakh in compensation. In March, a leopard killed two children in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district, following which the “man-eater” animal was shot dead.
Department of Wildlife Protection Jammu & Kashmir estimates, 264 human deaths were caused by wild animals in Kashmir over approximately 18 years from 2006 to March 2024, with 3,164 people having sustained injuries. The data reveals an upward trend over the past five years.
During 2020-21, there were five human deaths, which doubled to 10 in 2021-22, and then to 14 and 16 in the subsequent two years. Similarly, the number of injuries rose from 87 to 89 between 2020-21 and 2021-22. Then it went down to 65 in 2022-23 and sharply increased to 181 in 2023-24.
Even with partial settlements, it is still difficult to guarantee prompt and comprehensive assistance for impacted people and their families.
As illegal hunting and deforestation continue to degrade natural habitats, the once harmonious relationship between humans and the wilderness is under strain. Deforestation, driven by unsustainable land use practices, has become a catalyst for human-wildlife conflicts in Kashmir. As forests shrink, wildlife species are forced to venture closer to human settlements in search of food and shelter, leading to increased encounters and clashes between animals and villagers. This not only endangers human lives but also puts immense pressure on already vulnerable wildlife populations.
