LAHORE: The World Wildlife Day observed on Monday is the occasion to celebrate the strides made in the conservation of wildlife in Punjab amidst the rapidly evolving global landscape. As awareness of the importance of wildlife preservation gains momentum, the Punjab Wildlife Department is prepared to confront these challenges head-on. This was stated by Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department Director General Mudassir Riaz Malik while talking to Dawn onMonday.

He said the past year had been particularly historic for the department with the launch ofthe largest wildlife protection operation which rescued and released over 14,000 animals and birds of rare species. He claimed that the operation was not only aimedat protecting wildlife but also to secure its future, with fines exceeding Rs120m imposed on the violators.

According to Mr Malik, women had now joined the ranks of the Wildlife Protection Force for the first time in Punjab`s history as 136 women were serving alongside their male counterpartsandthey constituted 22pcofthe total force, bringing diverse perspectives and renewed vigour to the mission of wildlife conservation.

`The Punjab Wildlife Department`s efforts extended beyond preventing wildlife crimes as legal reforms had been introduced. The wildlife rangers are now empowered to register FIRs against the violators. Special courts are being established to impose severe penalties for wildlife offenses, which are now classified as non-bailable. Fines range from Rs50,000 to Rs5m, with a minimum of seven years imprisonment for serious crimes,` said the wildlife DG.

According to him, technology emerged as a vital ally in these conservation endeavours and the department was harnessing the power of thermal drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor wildlife and detect illegal poaching activities. This inno-vative approach has significantly enhanced the department`s capacity to protect vulnerable species and their habitats.

Muddasir Riaz Malik said public engagement remained a cornerstone of the Punjab Wildlife Department`s strategy. Initiatives such as the `Wild on Beats Show` at Lahore Safari Zoo exemplify the government`s commitment to raising awareness about wildlife conservation while providing enriching recreational opportunities for citizens. The safari zoos with predators, exotic birds and aquatic life serve as essential educational platforms for the community.

The officer said that the government was dedicated to establishing three rescue centres aimed at treating and rehabilitating rescued animals. These centres would provide critical medical care to animals saved from poachers or suffering from ailments before sending them to their natural habitats. He termed wildlife protection a collective responsibility that demanded concerted efforts.

He urged the people to collectively pledge on the World Wildlife Day to foster a sustainable future where wildlife could flourish.