In recent years, the Kashmir valley has witnessed a disturbing rise in human-wildlife conflicts. These conflicts, often involving leopards, black bears and brown bears, are becoming increasingly common as human activities continue to encroach on the natural habitats of these animals. According to the Department of Wildlife Protection in Jammu and Kashmir, from 2006 to March 2024, a staggering 264 people lost their lives, and 3,164 were injured due to encounters with wild animals. The issue is becoming more severe in rural areas, where many families are now living in constant fear.
The root cause: Habitat loss
One of the main reasons behind the increase in human-wildlife conflicts is habitat loss. With rapid urbanisation and deforestation in Kashmir, wild animals are being forced out of their natural homes. Forests that once provided food, shelter and safety for these animals are now being replaced by human settlements, roads and farmlands. As a result, animals are wandering into villages and towns in search of food, which leads to dangerous encounters with humans.
“Wild animals are losing their natural habitats because of us,” said Raja Muzzafar, an environmentalist from Srinagar. “We are cutting down forests at an alarming rate for our own development, but we are ignoring the fact that animals need space too. When we destroy their homes, they have no choice but to come into ours.”
The shrinking forests are driving animals closer to human settlements. Leopards, for example, have been known to roam through villages at night, searching for livestock or even food scraps. Bears, which used to stay deep in the forests, now venture into orchards and fields in search of apples and other fruits.
Impact on rural communities
The people of rural Kashmir are feeling the impact of these conflicts the most. Villagers who live near forested areas are particularly vulnerable. Many rely on farming or orchard work for their livelihoods, and the presence of wild animals has made these activities dangerous.
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In Shopian district, which reported the highest number of human-wildlife encounters, residents are growing increasingly anxious. One such resident is Ali Mohammad, a 35-year-old man from Dara Harwan, who was attacked by a bear while on his way to Friday prayers. The bear severely injured his face, resulting in the loss of one eye and extensive damage to his nose. Ali spent three months in the hospital recovering from his injuries.
“I thought I was going to die that day,” Ali recalled. “The bear came out of nowhere. I tried to run, but it was too late. It attacked my face, and I lost consciousness. My life has changed forever because of that day. I can’t work, and there has been no help from the government.”
Ali’s story is just one example of how human-wildlife conflicts are leaving lasting scars on the people of Kashmir, both physically and emotionally. Despite the severity of the injuries, many victims have not received compensation or support from the authorities, further adding to their frustration.
Abdul Aziz, another villager from Dara Gani Mohra, shared a similar story. His mother, Fatima, was attacked by a bear while tending to an apple orchard. Fatima suffered injuries to her face, abdomen and ear, and her medical bills have already reached Rs 3 lakh.
“We are a poor family,” Abdul said. “I had to borrow money from friends to pay for my mother’s treatment. The government has not given us any compensation, and we are struggling to make ends meet.”
Authorities’ response
While the Department of Wildlife Protection has issued warnings and taken some preventive measures, many locals feel that the response has been inadequate. Authorities have advised residents to avoid going outside after dark, as wild animals are more active during the night. Public announcements in mosques and messages shared on WhatsApp groups urge people to stay indoors, especially at night. However, these warnings have not done enough to address the root cause of the problem of human-wildlife conflicts.
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The government has also set up cages and traps to capture problematic animals, but this has not been enough to prevent attacks. In 2023-2024 alone, the number of injuries from wildlife encounters reached 181, a sharp increase from previous years. This upward trend has left villagers demanding more action to protect both people and wildlife.
“The government needs to do more than just warn us to stay inside,” said Mohammad Hussain, 60, who was attacked by a bear while harvesting apples. “We need real solutions. We need compensation for the victims, and we need to protect the forests so that the animals don’t come into our villages. Right now, it feels like we are being ignored.”
Environmental experts argue that the rising human-wildlife conflicts in Kashmir highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions. While habitat loss is the primary driver of these conflicts, the problem is also a symptom of broader environmental issues, including climate change and poor forest management.
“If we don’t take action now, the situation will only get worse,” warned Imran Ahmad. “We need to invest in reforestation programmes, create wildlife corridors and ensure that development is balanced with conservation. Otherwise, both humans and animals will continue to suffer.”
The rise in human-wildlife conflicts in Kashmir is a complex issue that requires immediate attention. As urbanisation and deforestation continue to encroach on natural habitats, wild animals are being forced into closer contact with humans, leading to tragic consequences. The people of rural Kashmir, many of whom depend on farming and orchard work, are particularly vulnerable to these encounters. They remain on edge, hoping for a solution that will allow them to live in harmony with the wildlife that surrounds them.
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The lead image on top shows Deforestation in Kashmir, particularly in Doodhpathri, that has changed wildlife habitats, leading to more frequent conflicts between people and animals in the area. (Photo by Suhail Bhat)
Suhail Bhat, a multimedia journalist from Kashmir, is a Village Square Fellow 2023-24.
This article was updated on 18 Sept 2024 to replace the original lead image after permission to use it was not given by Umar Altaf, the photographer.
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