MARDAN: The Wildlife Department, in collaboration with WWF, held an awareness session on wildlife conservation and protection in the Sakra Range area of Rustam.
The session was conducted by Range Officer Wildlife Ahmad Badshah on the directions of Divisional Forest Officer Wildlife Mardan Izaz Ali Shah.
Participants were briefed on the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats, as well as the role local communities can play in preventing illegal hunting, trapping, habitat destruction and the unlawful capture of wild animals.
Special attention was given to the conservation and protection of pangolins, which face threats from illegal hunting and trafficking.
The participants were told that wildlife is a valuable national asset and that its protection is a shared responsibility. The community was also informed about relevant legal provisions and possible legal action against wildlife violations under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife and Biodiversity Act, 2015.
Officials and WWF representatives stressed the importance of community participation in protecting wildlife and its habitats. Greater public awareness and cooperation can help reduce illegal activities and support long-term biodiversity conservation.
The session aimed to strengthen cooperation between local communities and wildlife authorities and encourage people to play an active role in protecting the region’s wildlife and natural ecosystems.
