Over the past 20 years, there has been an increased number of man-animal conflict cases in the Kashmir Valley, with terrible consequences for both human and animal life. Recently, you might have encountered news of a leopard injuring five people in the Ganderbal area of Kashmir. Several videos showed people beating the leopard with large poles, raising concerns about the man-animal conflict.
Kashmir has witnessed hundreds of animals being killed in man-animal conflicts, with the two main animals affected being leopards and bears. Many people are worried about the loss of animal and human life, particularly that of children. In recent times, many children have been killed by leopards in the Budgam area. Here, we will discuss the statistics regarding the man-animal conflict and propose potential solutions to resolve the issue.
Man-animal conflict statistics in Kashmir
The man-animal conflict in Kashmir has been a growing concern over the past two decades, with the number of incidents significantly increasing during this time. According to official data, 124 black bears and 44 leopards were killed in Kashmir between 2012 and 2020, highlighting the severity of the conflict. Particularly alarming is the trend of Himalayan black bears and leopards increasingly preying on young children, causing widespread alarm in the region. Since 2011, nearly 200 people have been killed, and over 2,000 have been injured in Kashmir’s human-wildlife conflict, according to official data. These numbers escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a man-eater leopard killing three children in Uri, Baramulla, in June 2023. The wildlife department then mobilized its workforce to trace the man-eater, but concerns over the safety of children continue to rise daily.
In the Kulgam district alone, official data reveals a staggering 725 incidents of human-animal conflicts from April 2018 to August 2023, resulting in the loss of 10 lives. The conflict has become a significant issue in the region, with experts attributing the increase in incidents to rapid urbanization and deforestation. Experts claim that the rise in Kashmir’s human population has altered wildlife habitats in the region. The population of these wild animals has decreased in forests, and their habitat has shifted toward human settlements. Consequently, the conflict has become a major concern in the region, prompting experts and activists to call for urgent measures to address the issue. In April 2024, we witnessed how a leopard injured 5 people in Fatehpur Ganderbal while also sustaining injuries from people wielding poles. The increase in incidents and the severity of the attacks have raised concerns about the safety of the region’s residents, particularly children.
When it comes to the loss of human lives, many individuals have tragically perished as well. According to official data, the human-wildlife conflict in Kashmir has resulted in the deaths of at least 242 people and the injury of 3,528 individuals between 2006 and 2020. In 2013 and 2014, there were a total of 28 deaths, a figure that declined to 10 in 2022. However, in 2023, there were 9 deaths and 136 injuries due to attacks by Himalayan Black Bears and Leopards. Additionally, it has become increasingly common for various snake species to be found in human houses, posing a threat to human lives.
Causes of man-animal conflict
There are several reasons for the increase in rates of man-animal conflict. The changing climate, loss of natural habitats, and rapid urbanization are the primary factors driving this trend in the Kashmir Valley. Experts assert that urbanization is leading to the destruction of wildlife habitats, thereby prompting wild animals to venture into human settlements in search of food and protection. Consequently, there has been a rise in conflicts and fatalities between people and animals. It holds true to a great extent that animals typically do not venture into human areas; rather, humans have encroached upon their natural habitats. Areas that were once safe havens for wild animals have now become human settlements.
In Kashmir, the man-animal conflict is worsening, with habitat loss emerging as one of the primary causes. The growth and spread of human populations have led to the destruction, fragmentation, or alteration of natural habitats, making it increasingly difficult for wild animals to find food and shelter. For example, Hangul, which used to inhabit nearly all forests of Kashmir, is now confined to Dachigam National Park alone. These animals, once abundant, served as prey for many predators like leopards. However, it has become increasingly rare for leopards to hunt their prey in the wild successfully. Consequently, leopards are moving into villages and towns where they can easily catch prey such as dogs, which are abundant. When wild animals are compelled to inhabit areas where humans reside, conflicts are more likely to occur.
Similarly, climate change is exacerbating the escalating violence between people and animals in Kashmir. Due to climate change, wild animals may migrate, and their habitats may undergo alterations, resulting in increased interactions between people and animals. For instance, shifts in snowfall patterns can make it more challenging for wild animals to locate food, prompting them to move to lower elevations, where human settlements are more prevalent. Multiple sources report a dramatic rise in the number of deaths and injuries resulting from the man-animal conflict in Kashmir since 2000.
Another factor contributing to the increase in man-animal conflict is the introduction of invasive species to Kashmir. For instance, wild boars, which were originally introduced by the Maharaja for hunting purposes, have now become a menace for the Kashmiri people. These wild boars are frequently spotted in orchards, gardens, and around human habitation, thereby heightening the likelihood of man-animal conflict. Similarly, the fragmentation of natural habitats forces wild animals to traverse through human habitation to move from one habitat to another.
Long-term consequences
The man-animal conflict in the Kashmir Valley has complex effects on both humans and animals, with both short-term and long-term consequences. Since 2006, at least 230 people have died, and 2,800 have been injured due to the conflict. Recently, Himalayan black bears and leopards have been increasingly targeting young children, instilling fear and sorrow among the local populace. Additionally, numerous animals have perished due to encounters with humans, highlighting the threat posed to wildlife by the conflict.
The loss of wildlife due to man-animal conflict results in a decrease in the number of wild animals within an ecosystem. The reduction in the genetic diversity of animals in an area is undoubtedly unfavorable. Even the loss of a single species threatens the delicate ecological balance, potentially leading to a decline in biodiversity and subsequent environmental imbalances. This, in turn, may result in an increased frequency of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, or broader climate change.
Moreover, the presence of wild animals can induce stress and fear among people, affecting their mental health. As wild animals encroach upon villages and towns, individuals, particularly children, may feel threatened in carrying out their daily activities freely.
The man-animal conflict not only jeopardizes human lives but also endangers wildlife. When animals venture into human habitats, the risk of human casualties escalates. Simultaneously, the conflict poses health risks to wild animals, as there is a possibility of transmission of various zoonotic diseases between humans or their pets and wild animals, and vice versa. In both scenarios, the outcomes are unfavorable, with a significant risk of diseases such as COVID-19 if more animals continue to encroach upon human-inhabited areas.
In Sonamarg, residents have observed brown bears consuming hazardous garbage-derived foods such as milk powder, toffee wrappers, and plastic bags. This underscores the importance of managing waste to prevent wild animals from ingesting harmful substances. Beyond these immediate consequences, there are numerous long-term repercussions that could have even more severe implications.
Psychological effects of the man-animal conflict
The confrontations between people and animals in the Kashmir Valley significantly impact the mental health of the local population. Residents live in fear of encountering wild animals, particularly black bears and leopards, leading to feelings of insecurity, panic attacks, and persistent anxiety. The traumatic events of attacks, injuries, and deaths have deeply affected the mental well-being of individuals, especially those directly involved in or witnessing these conflicts. The intense psychological trauma experienced by victims and their loved ones leaves them feeling miserable, frightened, and helpless. The loss of innocent lives, particularly among children, in these conflicts can inflict physical and mental wounds that endure for years.
People in the area are extremely anxious because they are reluctant to leave their homes, uncertain about their safety, and constantly vigilant to avoid encounters with wild animals. Apart from the direct victims, the mental effects permeate the community, spreading fear. Residing in areas where such confrontations are prevalent can exacerbate mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders, as individuals are persistently exposed to these conflicts. The residents of the Kashmir Valley are enduring significant emotional distress due to the ongoing conflict between people and animals.
How has the government responded to the growing man-animal conflict?
The man-animal conflict in the Kashmir Valley has been escalating for several years, resulting in an increasing number of casualties among both humans and animals. As human settlements encroach upon natural habitats, animals are forced to abandon their native homes, exacerbating the conflict. Consequently, there has been a rise in attacks on both people and livestock, posing challenges to community livelihoods. The most effective approach to mitigating man-animal conflict is by safeguarding natural ecosystems. In this regard, the J&K Wildlife Department is actively working to address such conflicts. With personnel stationed throughout Kashmir, the Wildlife Department remains vigilant in intercepting any animals encroaching into human habitation.
The staff of the wildlife department are equipped with nets, cages, and guns to catch wild animals. Captured animals are either released back into the wild or housed in rescue centers. If an animal is injured, it is kept in a rescue center. Meanwhile, man-eating leopards and their cubs are kept in zoos for their lifetime to ensure the safety of both animals and humans. Although rescue centers exist in the Kashmir Valley, the government must take decisive action to address the root of the problem. Additionally, the government collaborates with non-governmental organizations like Wildlife SOS. One such rescue center is located in Dachigam National Park, where animals involved in man-animal conflicts are housed. Wildlife SOS also operates a dedicated team that plays a vital role in rescuing wild animals, including snakes, from human settlements.
Furthermore, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir recently called for coordinated efforts to address the increasing incidents of man-animal conflict. The commissioner engaged various officials in J&K to discuss the rising attacks by leopards and bears in Kashmir. Emphasizing the importance of preventing the spread of rumors and misinformation regarding the presence of wild animals in human-inhabited areas, which can cause disturbances, he highlighted the need for proactive measures such as implementing a centralized helpline system for swift responses. Additionally, he stressed the necessity of training staff to handle the escalating cases of man-animal conflicts. The commissioner emphasized the importance of maintaining clean urban areas in Kashmir to deter the presence of dogs, which are prey for leopards. Furthermore, he recommended that parents refrain from allowing their children to venture outdoors during odd hours and encourage them to move in groups, particularly in rural areas. Moreover, he instructed department officials to install cages at designated locations and shared contact numbers for wildlife control rooms across different districts.
Recommendations
It is crucial to engage at the local level to address the challenges associated with man-animal conflict. Various measures can be implemented to reduce conflict and foster peaceful coexistence between people and animals. One of the most vital actions is to restore and safeguard natural habitats, thereby reinstating ecological balance. Providing wild animals with secure living and feeding environments can deter them from venturing into inhabited areas. Therefore, the primary focus should be on restoring the natural habitats of wild animals. For example, planting more fruit trees in forests can ensure a sustainable food source for black bears. Additionally, increasing the population of herbivores, which serve as prey, can discourage leopards from leaving their natural habitats. Furthermore, leopards require substantial territory for their habitat. Hence, expanding forested areas would provide ample space for leopards to live, feed, and reproduce.
Similarly, the establishment of buffer zones has become more crucial than ever. Authorities should create buffer zones around each national park or wildlife sanctuary. These buffer zones should be free from any human development and must provide ample resources for wild animals. Simultaneously, a robust monitoring and response system is essential to swiftly address man-animal conflicts. By equipping wildlife offices with better tools and facilities, it is possible to monitor conflict zones proactively. Acting promptly and having sufficient personnel to resolve disputes swiftly are crucial to prevent harm to both people and animals.
To reduce the risk of man-animal conflict, people must exercise caution to avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Restricting activities such as livestock grazing in forests and the collection of non-timber forest products can aid in preserving critical habitats and reducing interactions between people and wildlife. Dedicated routes and areas should be established for Bakarwals who accompany their cattle for grazing in the forests. Additionally, regulations should be implemented to control the number of individuals entering forests to collect Morels (Kangech).
Community knowledge and raising awareness about man-animal conflict are crucial in reducing such conflicts. Being compassionate and knowledgeable about the animals in our environment makes people more inclined to take responsibility for them and to take measures to protect them. Educating people about the ecological significance of animals and providing them with specific tips on how to mitigate issues can foster a deeper appreciation for nature. Conducting workshops and community events makes it easy to educate people about wildlife and the importance of preserving their habitats. Additionally, it is imperative to incorporate content about man-animal conflict into school textbooks to ensure that future generations are aware of these issues from a foundational level.
Conclusion
There exists a delicate balance between human development and wildlife protection that we must not transgress. We must acknowledge that every animal species holds the same right to inhabit this planet as we do. The loss of either human or animal life is neither beneficial nor ethical. Often, humans bear responsibility for the decline of wildlife. Despite encroaching upon their natural habitats, humans tend to blame wild animals for conflicts. However, this is not the reality. It is imperative that we respect nature and recognize that wild animals do not attack humans for amusement; rather, their own lives are typically at risk when they encounter humans. Therefore, prioritizing the protection of natural habitats, establishing buffer zones, and raising awareness among people have become more crucial than ever. These measures can greatly mitigate the occurrence of man-animal conflict.
References
https://www.thestatesman.com/india/man-animal-conflict-on-the-rise-in-kashmir-valley-1503147211.html
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