The alleged killing of a flock of flamingos at Rawal Lake has sparked concern among wildlife authorities and environmentalists, with the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) launching an investigation into the incident.
According to the IWMB, around 12 to 13 flamingos were reportedly hunted by poachers, who were allegedly assisted by local individuals. The board said other water birds, including coots and moorhens, may also have been killed.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on June 3, was brought to the board’s attention by a bird photographer. The IWMB described the killing of the flamingos as an ecological tragedy, noting that sightings of the birds at Rawal Lake are rare, particularly during the summer season.
The board said it has collected preliminary evidence, including spent cartridges, and submitted a report to the assistant commissioner. Police have been informed and an FIR will be registered following completion of the investigation.
The IWMB said it suspects the contractor holding commercial fishing rights at Rawal Lake may be linked to the incident, though investigations are ongoing.
Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination spokesperson Mohammad Saleem Shaikh said the IWMB had initiated an inquiry and was treating the matter with utmost seriousness. He said strict legal action would be taken under wildlife protection laws if the allegations are proven.
Picture via: Zahran CR