First non-exportable Markhor hunted

CHITRAL: Kyle Adam Miller successfully hunted a non-exportable Markhor in the Shoghoor Wildlife Range, a buffer zone of Chitral Gol National Park Wildlife Division.According to Wildlife Department Chitral, this marked the first-ever non-exportable hunt of its kind in the area, contributing to both conservation efforts and local community uplift.

The hunt was conducted in the presence of Rizwanullah, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Chitral Gol National Park; Salimuddin, Chairman of Chitral Gol Community Development and Conservation Association; Shafiq Ahmad, Range Officer (Wildlife); and Ijazur Rehman, Range Officer.

The revenue generated from the hunt will support wildlife conservation initiatives and enhance the livelihoods of local communities by funding various development projects.

The buffer zone hunting programme aims to promote sustainable hunting practices, ensuring a balance between conservation and economic benefits for the people of Chitral. This successful hunt highlighted the effectiveness of the community-based conservation model, where controlled and regulated hunting plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species like the Markhor while providing incentives for local communities to preserve wildlife habitats.