(English) Illegal hunting escalated in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

KATHMANDU, Nepal–Illegal wildlife hunting has increased in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. The incidents of poaching have escalated in the hunting block of reserve area. Taking advantage of weak security situation, the poachers and smugglers have increased unlawful activities in the area, National News agency RSS report said citing the reserve sources.

The reserve, which is a habitat to 32 different species of mammals, has become an appropriate destination for illegal hunting.

The government has also not brought any specific security arrangement to check increasing poaching activities in the area which is stretched over 1325 sq kms. A police post with the capacity of 13 security personnel has been deputed for the entire security of the reserve.

The open border with Baglung, Rukum and Myagdi districts and deficit security arrangement in and around the area are behind growing wildlife smuggling in the reserve, according to Conservation Officer at the Reserve Biswo Babu Shrestha.