Thane forest dept panel to curb wildlife trafficking

Dr V Clement Ben, addl principal chief conservator of forests (centre) with the committee on October 6

The Thane forest department has taken a significant step in the fight against the worrying rise in illicit wildlife trafficking and the keeping of wild animals as pets by forming a committee of honorary wildlife wardens and department officials. This effort attempts to address the wildlife crime crisis through improved coordination, effective information sharing and the adoption of prompt and appropriate actions, while also attempting to increase awareness of the problem.

Recent shocking occurrences such as the recovery of a crocodile from a Dadar swimming pool and the spotting of a large python at a Mumbai housing society have highlighted the need for such action. The nine-member committee was formed on October 6 and the divisional forest officer of the vigilance department of Thane forest department circle has been made its chairman. The panel includes four range forest officials, three honorary wildlife wardens and an inspector from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, Mumbai.

The committee will submit a report on a monthly basis to the office of the Thane forest department, territorial, and office of the additional principal chief conservator of forest, wildlife. Dr V Clement Ben, additional principal chief conservator of forests, wildlife, said, "To improve monitoring and coordination in the fight against wildlife crime and to discuss the steps taken to combat it, the committee must meet at least once a month. The committee will also acquire data from other sources about wildlife crime, such as illegal possession and wildlife trade. The committee will choose a course of action based on the information it receives."
The committee will also facilitate the carrying out of raids to curb wildlife crime and will guide or render help as the case may be. It will also be the committee's job to publicise and create awareness among the public about the Wildlife Protection Act and act upon the directions given by Dr V Clement Ben or this office.

Pawan Sharma, honorary wildlife warden of Thane and president of the NGO RAWW, said that illegal wildlife pet trade, trafficking and wildlife crimes have been on the rise, which is clearly visible in recent incidents such as airport seizures, an escaped pet snake hanging from the window grill of a society, the crocodile in a public swimming pool and the seizure of star tortoises in Mumbai.

"Both native and exotic species have been a matter of concern with the latest trends and patterns of crimes. This monitoring committee will collectively work towards gathering intel and create strategies to counter wildlife crimes," Sharma said.

Nine
No. of members on panel