The Baijanath Community Forest Users Group is facing a growing threat from wildlife poaching and illegal harvesting of forest resources, raising serious concerns among conservationists and local residents.
According to Bahadur Singh Mahar, chairperson of the community forest, individuals and organized groups are increasingly exploiting the forest area for hunting wildlife, capturing animal offspring, and using domestic firearms, improvised guns, and even dogs to carry out their activities. Mahar noted that the perpetrators are taking advantage of the region’s political instability to carry out these illegal practices with little fear of consequences.
Illegal Exploitation of Forest Resources
Beyond poaching, unauthorized activities have escalated in other areas of the forest. Local officials report that illegal grazing, destruction of forest fences, and unpermitted collection of grass, firewood, and fodder have become common. Such actions not only compromise the health of the forest ecosystem but also threaten the livelihoods of communities dependent on sustainable forest resources.
Mahar highlighted additional dangers posed by individuals using harmful pesticides and electrical equipment to catch fish in rivers and streams within the forest. “These practices seriously affect wildlife and aquatic species, undermining biodiversity and natural balance,” he said.
Vandalism and Security Challenges
Efforts to monitor and protect the forest have faced setbacks. CCTV cameras, solar lights, and other monitoring equipment installed to deter poaching have been vandalized. Vehicles entering the forest day and night contribute to illegal sand excavation, red soil removal, and further poaching, exacerbating the environmental degradation. “The combination of illegal hunting, resource extraction, and vandalism of protective infrastructure has put both wildlife and the forest ecosystem at risk,” Mahar emphasized.
Calls for Action
To address these challenges, the Baijanath Community Forest Users Group has issued public notices urging local residents and visitors to refrain from illegal activities. Mahar stated, “If these violations continue, we will be compelled to take action under the Forest Act, 2076, and the user group’s statute to protect the forest and its wildlife.”
Officials are also appealing to the Divisional Forest Office, local administration, and police authorities to enforce strict measures against the smuggling of forest products and wildlife. Collaboration between the community, government agencies, and law enforcement is deemed essential to ensure the long-term protection of the forest and its biodiversity.
Environmental Implications
The surge in poaching and illegal resource exploitation not only threatens wildlife but also affects the well-being of local communities that rely on the forest for sustainable resources. Forest officials emphasize that protecting Baijanath Community Forest is a shared responsibility, vital for maintaining ecological balance, preserving livelihoods, and promoting environmental stewardship for future generations.
By raising awareness and strengthening cooperation with authorities, the community hopes to safeguard wildlife, prevent illegal exploitation, and foster a culture of conservation that benefits both humans and the environment.
