Forest Minister Vows Action to Tackle Human-Wildlife Conflict

Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi has emphasized the government’s commitment to minimizing the escalating human-wildlife conflict, which he attributed to wildlife encroaching on human settlements in search of food.

During a monitoring visit to Parsa National Park, Minister Shahi highlighted the dual challenges of wildlife entering villages and human expansion into forest areas. “If large animals like tigers and wild elephants are kept within forest boundaries, and people avoid entering the forest, conflicts can be significantly reduced,” he remarked.

The minister noted that human settlements expanding into wildlife corridors have exacerbated the issue, leading to increased tension and, at times, retaliation by affected locals. He urged immediate relief for families impacted by wildlife damage, warning that delays in assistance have led to locals attacking the animals.

“The protection of forests, water resources, and wildlife is a shared responsibility,” Minister Shahi said, emphasizing the park’s significance as a tourist destination.

The ministry is also exploring sustainable forest management practices, including utilizing fallen and decayed wood to reduce dependency on timber imports. Minister Shahi revealed plans to amend relevant laws and regulations to address pressing issues in national parks and forest management effectively.

Dispelling misconceptions that the ministry impedes development, he reaffirmed his commitment to balancing conservation efforts with developmental needs. “I have taken serious note of the challenges in Parsa National Park and will implement measures to resolve them,” he stated.

Efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, enhance community support, and promote sustainable forest use are part of the ministry’s broader conservation and development strategy, the minister added.