Thane Forest Department’s anti-poaching unit held a meeting this Thursday with members of animal welfare groups to build and develop strategies and a stronger network to combat organized wildlife crime.
“The Mumbai Metropolitan Region is witnessing increasing cases of illegal pet and wildlife trade, and the pattern has changed to using the web for easy access and communication. We intend to enter and break into this network,” a senior forest official said.
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Groups such as Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW), Plant and Animals Welfare Society - Mumbai (PAWS-Mumbai), the Thane Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Spreading Awareness on Reptiles and Rehabilitation Program (SARRP), Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA), and a few others were present for discussions. The meeting was conducted online.
As per the President at RAWW, Pawan Sharma, among the key issues discussed was the need to create more awareness, coordinating with the police departments and cyber cells to counter wildlife trafficking and scheduling meetings of the Bird Committee appointed by the Bombay High Court. The members also decided to prepare a database of volunteers as well as members who are trained in wildlife rescue.
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Following the meeting, the members decided to launch a dedicated email address, helpline number, and social media handles which would monitor illegal wildlife trades online while also keeping an eye on poaching and illegal hunting. These teams will also be tasked with raising awareness about wildlife conservation.
The meeting was conducted just a day after a person was arrested for carrying 94 caged animals and birds on a truck. Officials said that 62 Indian nose-ringed parakeets, 12 plum headed parakeets, seven Indian palm squirrels, and 13 albino rabbits were being delivered to South Mumbai while the truck was intercepted on its way to Crawford Market. It’s clear that despite laws and warnings from the officials, illicit trading of wildlife continues unabated in some form.
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