CM Orders Escort Facility for Schoolchildren in Wildlife-Prone Areas; Pauri DFO Removed Amid Rising Conflict Cases
Dehradun: In a high-level review meeting of the Forest Department held at the Secretariat, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami issued several strict directives aimed at curbing the rising incidents of human-wildlife conflict in the state. Stressing that safeguarding human life is the government’s top priority, the Chief Minister instructed officials to strengthen on-ground response systems, adopt modern technology, and ensure proactive coordination with local communities.
Forest Team Must Reach Incident Spot Within 30 Minutes
The Chief Minister directed that Forest Department teams must reach the site of any human-wildlife conflict incident within 30 minutes of receiving information. Accountability for delays will rest directly on the concerned DFO and Ranger, he added. Immediate financial support should also be provided to affected individuals or families.
Pauri DFO Removed with Immediate Effect
Referring to the surge in wildlife-related incidents in Pauri district, CM Dhami ordered the immediate removal of the Pauri Divisional Forest Officer (DFO). The move underscores the government’s firm stand on ensuring timely and responsible action from officials.
Escort Facility for Schoolchildren in Sensitive Areas
To provide safety to school-going children in areas where the threat from wild animals is higher, CM Dhami instructed the Forest Department and district administration to arrange escort facilities during school commute hours.
Livelihood Support Policy to Be Prepared in Two Weeks
Emphasizing support for families who lose their breadwinners to wildlife attacks, the Chief Minister directed the Forest Department to prepare a comprehensive livelihood support policy within the next two weeks. This would ensure financial security and rehabilitation for affected families.
Clearing of Wild Bushes and Strengthened Vigilance
The Chief Minister also called for a statewide campaign to clear wild bushes around human settlements to reduce the chances of wild animals straying into villages. He stressed the need for continuous monitoring in wildlife-sensitive regions through surveillance cameras and improved communication between forest personnel and villagers.
Use of New Technology and Equipment
CM Dhami highlighted the importance of integrating modern technology to prevent wild animal intrusion into populated areas. He instructed officials to ensure that districts receive the necessary equipment without delay.
The meeting was attended by Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, Secretaries Shailesh Bagoli, Vinay Shankar Pandey and C. Ravishankar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Ranjan Mishra, and Additional Secretary Himanshu Khurana.
