Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami orders escort arrangements for schoolchildren in wildlife conflict zones and directs rapid response by forest teams to ensure public safety.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed the state forest department to implement escort arrangements for schoolchildren residing in areas prone to human-wildlife conflict. The instructions were issued during a comprehensive review meeting of the forest department at the state secretariat on Thursday.

Escort Facilities for Schoolchildren

CM Dhami emphasized that children should not risk their lives while traveling to school in wildlife-affected regions. He instructed that the Forest Department and district administration jointly organize escort services to ensure safe travel for students. “Escort arrangements must be implemented without delay,” Dhami stated, underlining the importance of prioritizing human life.

Rapid Response to Human-Wildlife Incidents

The Chief Minister also instructed forest officials to ensure that forest teams reach any site of human-wildlife conflict within 30 minutes of receiving information. He clarified that any delays or negligence would be the responsibility of the concerned Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and Ranger. Additionally, officials were asked to provide prompt compensation and financial support to affected families.

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Restructuring in Pauri District

Highlighting the rise in human-wildlife conflict incidents in Pauri district, CM Dhami ordered the immediate removal of the Pauri DFO, emphasizing the need for proactive leadership to protect public safety. He stressed that swift administrative action was necessary to manage the escalating risks to residents.

Comprehensive Policy on Human-Wildlife Conflict

The Chief Minister directed the forest department to draft a detailed policy within two weeks. The new framework will focus on livelihood support, rehabilitation, and sustained assistance for households affected by wildlife conflicts, ensuring long-term safety and community support in vulnerable regions.