Punjab Government to Set Up Special Courts for Wildlife Crimes, Amends Laws for Protection

Lahore:The Punjab government has announced plans to establish special courts to handle crimes related to wildlife, including animal cruelty and illegal possession. The decision comes as part of efforts to strengthen wildlife protection in the province. Under the new amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, violators could face fines of up to 5 million rupees.

The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee approved these changes during a meeting on Tuesday. Minister for Wildlife, Mariam Aurangzeb, briefed the committee, explaining that these amendments to the Wildlife Act are the first in 14 years. With these changes, the system for the protection and breeding of wildlife in the province will now align with international standards.

Mariam Aurangzeb highlighted that strict action would be taken against those involved in animal cruelty. The new amendments also grant legal protection to wildlife areas. A board will oversee the management of protected areas and wildlife, with the Wildlife Minister acting as the chairperson.

Under the revised law, specialized forces will be established for the protection of wildlife, and dedicated centers will be created for their breeding and care. Advanced technology, including drones, will be used for animal monitoring and protection, and comprehensive surveys of animal habitats will be conducted. A helpline (1107) has been set up for reporting wildlife-related complaints.

To further enhance wildlife conservation and promote global tourism, the Punjab government has launched a comprehensive plan worth 1.73 billion rupees. This includes the development of a 7D Wildlife Cinema, moving theaters, and tourism projects. Additionally, a wildlife hospital will be constructed at a cost of 1.47 billion rupees, and a 60-million-rupee internship program will be introduced for youth in the wildlife sector.

Mariam Aurangzeb also announced that work is underway on an educational and exhibition center in Lahore, with an investment of 800 million rupees. The center will feature a 360-degree virtual zoo, digital wildlife maps, and informational books on wildlife.