The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee has approved significant amendments to the Wildlife Act of 1974, which includes the establishment of special courts dedicated to addressing wildlife violations.
This initiative aims to enhance the protection of wildlife through various measures, as outlined by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb during the committee meeting.
The new provisions will allow for the creation of special courts that will specifically handle cases related to wildlife violations, ensuring that such offenses are addressed more efficiently and effectively.
Violators of wildlife protection laws may face substantial fines, with penalties reaching up to Rs 500,000 for serious offenses. This is part of a broader strategy to deter illegal activities against wildlife.
A new board named “Protected Areas and Wildlife Management” will be established to oversee the implementation of these amendments and ensure compliance with wildlife protection standards.
The amendments also propose the creation of special centers for the breeding, treatment, and protection of wildlife, which aims to bolster conservation efforts within the province.
These changes reflect a concerted effort by the Punjab government to strengthen wildlife conservation laws and address ongoing challenges related to poaching, illegal possession, and cruelty towards animals.