LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched the Punjab Wildlife Hazard Control Rules 2025, along with major amendments to existing wildlife protection laws. The rules come in response to rising need for safeguarding both human populations and wildlife in the province.
These new measures are designed to address potential dangers posed by wild animals while modernising environmental and biodiversity management practices.
According to an article published by the Express Tribune, the authorities have issued updated rules for creating a more scientific and efficient approach to handling conflicts between humans and wildlife. Under the new system, the Chief Wildlife Ranger has the authority to take swift action when a wild animal is deemed a threat to human life or is found to be suffering from disease or injury.
Such decisions will be based on scientific evidence, field reports, and public complaints. In cases of emergency, the Punjab Rangers, after consulting wildlife experts, can take immediate action to capture, relocate, or even remove the animal.
The rules further stipulate that all interventions must be carried out in collaboration with the Punjab Captive Wildlife Management Committee and veterinary professionals, ensuring humane and scientifically sound practices.
To prevent future conflicts, a detailed strategy has been put in place, including the classification of certain species as pests or harmful animals. In some cases, special hunting permits may be issued for controlled periods, and designated “Wildlife Hazard Zones” will restrict activities such as feeding or keeping wild animals.
Another key feature of the new rules is the repatriation of foreign species to their native habitats and the reintroduction of local species to areas they once inhabited. The government will also reward individuals and organisations involved in the safe capture or relocation of dangerous wildlife.
Additionally, the Punjab government has also massively hiked penalties for wildlife-related offenses. Fines for hunting protected birds have been raised from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000, and serious violations now carry fines of up to Rs 10,000. This is up from the previous Rs 500 fine. Hunting and possessing rare or predatory birds, including falcons, is now completely prohibited as well.
The new legislation also sees the abolition of honorary game warden positions, with members of community-based wildlife conservancies now granted legal authority to help prevent illegal hunting and trade. A digital platform will soon be introduced to manage permits for hunting, breeding, and wildlife trading. In an effort to protect animals from exploitation in sports, live rabbits will be banned in dog racing events, with only mechanical bait allowed.
As part of the overhaul, the government plans to establish Wildlife Protection Centres across the province, staffed with officers trained in modern tactics and equipped with advanced tools. These officers will have the power to conduct searches and make arrests without warrants, strengthening the enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
These new rules reflect Punjab’s commitment to both preserving its natural heritage and ensuring the safety of its residents from potential wildlife hazards.