Strict Action: Heavy Penalty for Illegal Gazelle Hunting in Punjab

The Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department has taken a strong stance against illegal hunting of gazelles, announcing heavy fines, stricter monitoring, and possible imprisonment for those found guilty. The move comes after reports of rising incidents of poaching in several districts, threatening the already vulnerable gazelle population in the province.

Wildlife experts say Pakistan has already lost several native species to extinction, and if the trend continues, gazelles may face the same fate. Protecting them is now seen as a matter of urgency.

According to the latest directive:

• Heavy fines up to Rs. 200,000 will be imposed for each gazelle illegally hunted.

• Repeat offenders could face jail terms ranging from six months to two years.

• Wildlife inspectors have been given authority to seize vehicles, weapons, and equipment used in poaching.

• Community informants will be rewarded for reporting illegal hunting activities.

Officials emphasized that no one will be spared, regardless of status or influence.

Gazelles are an important part of Punjab’s desert ecosystem. They help maintain natural balance by grazing on vegetation and serving as prey for predators. Losing them could disrupt the entire desert food chain.

Additionally, gazelles are part of Pakistan’s natural heritage, with deep cultural significance in literature, poetry, and folklore. Protecting them preserves both biodiversity and tradition.

Wildlife officers say that during the last two years, there has been a rise in poaching incidents in Cholistan, D.G. Khan, and Rajanpur. Many hunters exploit weak enforcement, while some use illegal modern equipment such as night-vision rifles and silencers.

Earlier this year, at least 15 cases of illegal gazelle hunting were reported, with many offenders escaping punishment due to a lack of evidence or delayed reporting. The new crackdown is meant to close these loopholes.

The Punjab government is also exploring the use of drones and camera traps to monitor gazelle habitats. By combining on-ground patrols with aerial monitoring, authorities hope to track poachers more effectively.

Additionally, a wildlife crime database is being developed to document offenders and share information across districts.

Along with strict penalties, the government is launching awareness campaigns in local communities. Posters, radio programs, and social media drives will educate people about:

• The importance of gazelles for ecosystems

• Penalties for illegal hunting

• Ways to report suspicious activity

School programs are also being introduced to teach children about wildlife protection from an early age.

Experts argue that involving local communities is key. Many residents living near gazelle habitats rely on livestock and farming, and some are tempted by quick profits from poaching. By offering incentives for eco-tourism and conservation work, authorities hope to turn villagers into protectors instead of hunters.

• Wildlife officials: “This is not just about one animal. Protecting gazelles means protecting our natural heritage,” said a senior officer from the Punjab Wildlife Department.

• Conservationists: “Heavy fines are a good start, but what we really need is consistent enforcement and awareness,” noted a WWF representative.

• Residents: Some community members welcomed the move, saying poaching had gone unchecked for years. Others, however, expressed concerns about losing a traditional practice.

To ensure long-term protection of gazelles, the government is considering:

• Expanding wildlife sanctuaries in Cholistan and Thal deserts.

• Introducing breeding programs in captivity to boost population numbers.

• Stricter border checks to prevent illegal wildlife trade.

• Collaboration with universities for wildlife research and conservation studies.

The Punjab government’s decision to impose heavy fines and stricter action against illegal gazelle hunting is a turning point in Pakistan’s wildlife protection efforts.

While laws have existed for decades, weak enforcement has allowed poaching to continue. Now, with stronger monitoring, community involvement, and international support, there is hope that the Indian gazelle will survive and thrive in Pakistan’s deserts.

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