Mesh Fencing Along Nangal Dam Lake in Punjab Proves Fatal for Wildlife
In a distressing incident that has ignited public fury, mesh wire fencing installed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) around the Nangal Dam Lake area in Punjab has transformed into a lethal hazard for wild animals. Early on Saturday morning, a young Sambar deer became ensnared in the fencing and was subsequently attacked and devoured by stray dogs, according to local reports.
Local Outcry Over Animal Suffering
Swami Vasant, who oversees a temple complex adjacent to the lake, recounted the harrowing scene to The Tribune. He described hearing the deer's screams and witnessing dogs mauling the trapped animal. "By the time I reached there, the Sambar was already dead. It was heart-wrenching to see wild animals being trapped and getting killed in the fencing wire of BBMB," he stated, emphasizing that such incidents occur frequently, with animals regularly getting trapped and perishing due to the barrier.
Wildlife Officials Highlight Ecological Disruption
Speaking anonymously, local wildlife officials revealed that the mesh fencing obstructs natural pathways used by animals to access the lake for water and food, particularly during summer months when other sources dry up in the hills. They noted that herds of deer are often observed struggling to navigate the fencing, leading to injuries or entrapment. The officials stressed that this fencing violates the Wildlife Protection Act, as a significant portion of Nangal Dam Lake is a designated wildlife sanctuary, with a 100-meter eco-sensitive zone where construction activities require prior approval from wildlife authorities.
BBMB's Unauthorized Actions and Regulatory Failures
Sources indicate that the BBMB erected the mesh wire fencing several years ago without obtaining necessary permissions from wildlife departments. Despite receiving a formal notice from wildlife authorities, the BBMB has yet to dismantle the fencing. Ropar Ranger Wildlife Raj Davinder Singh confirmed that discussions are ongoing with BBMB officials to address the removal of the fencing from the eco-sensitive zone. Meanwhile, Bhakra Dam Chief Engineer CP Singh has pledged to investigate the matter and consult with relevant officials regarding the status of the fencing.
Broader Implications for Conservation Efforts
This incident underscores a critical conflict between infrastructure management and wildlife conservation in Punjab. The unauthorized fencing not only poses immediate dangers to animals but also threatens the ecological balance of the Nangal wildlife sanctuary. Local residents and conservationists are calling for urgent action to remove the barriers and enforce stricter compliance with environmental regulations to prevent further tragedies.
