Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi has emphasized the need for urgent measures to mitigate the increasing human-wildlife conflict in Nepal. After monitoring Parsa National Park, the minister acknowledged the rising tension as wildlife increasingly ventures into human settlements in search of food.
“Human-wildlife conflict can be reduced if large animals like tigers and wild elephants are prevented from entering villages and people refrain from encroaching on forest areas,” Minister Shahi remarked during his visit.
Minister Shahi attributed the growing conflict to the expansion of human settlements into wildlife corridors and the animals’ search for sustenance outside the protected park areas. He highlighted the urgent need for immediate relief to families affected by wildlife incidents. “When relief is delayed, locals retaliate by attacking wildlife, further escalating the issue,” he explained.
Acknowledging Parsa National Park as a major tourist destination, Minister Shahi stressed the shared responsibility of conserving the park’s water resources and wildlife. He also revealed plans to utilize fallen and decayed wood within forest areas to reduce timber imports, thereby promoting sustainable forest management.
The Ministry of Forest and Environment is preparing to amend relevant Acts and Rules to address the challenges faced by national parks and forest areas. Minister Shahi reassured stakeholders of his commitment to resolving the issues in Parsa National Park.
“I have taken serious note of the problems and will implement measures to resolve them,” he affirmed. Minister Shahi also addressed the misconception that the ministry hinders development, underscoring its role in balancing conservation with sustainable progress.
Efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and improve forest management are crucial to preserving biodiversity and maintaining harmony between communities and the environment.
