Lahore – August 6, 2025 – The Punjab government has announced a new “zero-tolerance” policy to combat the illegal hunting of falcons and quails, which has led to a drastic decline in the populations of these rare bird species. Under the direction of Secretary Forests, Wildlife and Fisheries, Mudassir Riaz Malik, the Punjab Wildlife Department is launching a comprehensive campaign to enforce strict conservation measures across the province.
The new policy, finalized in a recent meeting led by Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi, involves several key actions:
- Deployment of Trained Rangers: Newly trained Wildlife Rangers will be deployed throughout Punjab to monitor and prevent illegal hunting activities.
- Immediate Legal Action: Officials have been directed to immediately register First Information Reports (FIRs) against anyone caught illegally hunting or trapping falcons and quails. This also applies to landowners who are found to be complicit in such activities on their property.
- Enhanced Vigilance and Accountability: All field officers are instructed to remain highly vigilant during the hunting season and submit daily reports on any violations. Furthermore, deputy wildlife chief rangers will be held directly accountable for any complaints regarding the trapping of these birds in their respective areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The department will utilize electronic and social media to launch public awareness campaigns, educating citizens about the ecological harm caused by illegal hunting and the importance of preserving these species.
- Dedicated Raid Teams: Special raid teams are being established to conduct targeted operations and act on credible information about illegal hunting and trapping.
While these measures demonstrate a serious commitment to wildlife conservation, the department emphasizes that the success of this campaign will depend heavily on public cooperation and effective, sustained enforcement. The department has also announced that it will reward officers who show exceptional performance in combating illegal wildlife trade.
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