Srinagar- A surge in human-animal conflict in the Rajwar area of Handwara has claimed four lives and injured nine others since 2018, according to data obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request. Local residents attribute the increase in incidents to the construction of the Handwara-Bangus road, which they say has disrupted the wildlife habitat.
The RTI, filed by activist and lawyer Rasikh Rasool Bhat, reveals 128 incidents of human-animal conflict in Rajwar between 2017-18 and the present. It also shows that wildlife authorities received 136 SOS calls regarding the presence of wild animals in residential areas during the same period. One wild animal was killed, and 22 were captured alive.
Locals allege that the problem worsened after forest clearance was granted for the 40-kilometer Handwara-Bangus road in 2017. They claim the road, which cuts through a large, dense forest, has forced wild animals out of their natural habitat and into closer proximity with human populations. The road traverses compartments 2, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 24, 25, and 26 of the Rajwar forest area.
“Before 2018, there were few, if any, such incidents,” Bhat said. “The surge occurred after forest clearance was given for the road. A feasible alternate route existed via Rajwar Zachaldara-Wadder, making the current route unnecessary and environmentally damaging.”
Bhat, who is also contesting the road construction in the National Green Tribunal (NGT), argues that the project has not only disrupted the ecosystem but also threatens local livelihoods.
“The increased human-animal conflict is impacting agriculture and horticulture, key sources of income for residents. Furthermore, the road bypasses the main Rajwar area, potentially hindering economic benefits for the local community,” he said.
He also alleged that Rule 7C of the J&K Forest and Afforestation rules was miscounted and dishonestly applied in granting forest clearance.
Bhat called for the cancellation of the Handwara-Bangus road project and the reforestation of the affected area. He suggested declaring the disturbed forest areas, which connect to other wildlife habitats in Kupwara, as a wildlife sanctuary. “There must be a safe haven for wildlife to prevent these conflicts and protect the animals,” he added. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers both development and environmental protection.
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