Falcon, duck poaching at Taunsa, Rajanpur exposed

LAHORE: Widespread illegal hunting of falcons and ducks has been exposed along the Indus River from Taunsa Barrage to Rajanpur, and along the banks of the Chenab River near Rangpur, Muzaffargarh, Alipur, and Rohilanwali. Reports indicate that illegal camps for falcon hunting have been established in multiple areas, with gunfire frequently heard in the mornings due to rampant duck hunting — causing serious concern among local residents.

Despite repeated complaints and alerts sent via the personal WhatsApp of the Directorate of Punjab Wildlife Department, no meaningful action has been taken. The continued silence and inaction of the department have raised serious questions about the alleged complicity of certain officers in these unlawful activities.

Environmental experts and local conservation groups report that official negligence and political interference have resulted in severe harm to rare and protected bird species. Footage and posts circulating on social media have further revealed the extent of these violations, exposing blatant disregard for wildlife protection laws.

Local organisations, environmentalists, and concerned citizens have called for an immediate investigation into the illegal hunting operations, strict action against complicit officers, and concrete steps to ensure the protection of endangered wildlife. The Sindhu Bachao Tarla Tehreek (Save the Indus Movement) has urged the government to promptly halt all such unlawful hunting activities and enforce wildlife conservation measures in accordance with national environmental and defence laws.

The News repeatedly contacted Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Dera Ghazi Khan, Sakhi Joya, who said the department is taking action and he will share the details in the coming week. The News also contacted Assistant Chief Wildlife Ranger Dera Ghazi Khan/Muzaffargarh, who said that eight FIRs have been registered against the hunters, and several of them have been arrested. He added that some of the offenders have also been fined.