Key Takeaways
- Lahore has completed Pakistan’s first wildlife hospital with 12 operation theatres and two examination rooms.
- The hospital aims to treat wild animals, part of broader forest and wildlife conservation efforts.
- Punjab’s Forest and Wildlife Department is using modern technology to protect forests and wildlife.
Punjab has taken a significant step towards wildlife conservation by launching Pakistan’s first wildlife hospital in Lahore. The hospital, equipped with 12 operation theatres and two examination rooms, is designed to provide specialized medical care for injured or sick wild animals.
During a visit to the Command and Control Centre of the Forest and Wildlife Department, Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb received a briefing on various forest, wildlife, and eco-tourism projects. The department has set ambitious targets, including the planting of 50 million trees in one year, with an additional 10 million saplings being planted during the monsoon plantation campaign.
To enhance the protection of forests and wildlife, the department is employing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, long-range thermal cameras, satellite monitoring, and live surveillance. These measures are complemented by an early fire detection system to ensure timely identification and response to forest fires.
The Forest Rangers Force now comprises over 5,000 personnel, including 215 women, marking a significant milestone in the department’s efforts. Anti-timber theft operations have also yielded positive results, with fines amounting to more than Rs10 million.
The meeting also discussed plans to transform Jallo Park into an eco-tourism centre through a public-private partnership. Proposals include the establishment of a giraffe café and a treehouse café at the safari park, aiming to promote sustainable tourism practices.
Maryam Aurangzeb directed officials to focus on improving the monitoring of plantation survival and maintenance, expanding the use of modern technology for forest and wildlife protection, and aligning eco-tourism projects with modern requirements.
The new wildlife hospital is expected to play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and treatment of injured wildlife, contributing to the overall conservation efforts in Punjab.
The department’s commitment to modernizing its approach to forest and wildlife protection is evident in its use of cutting-edge technology and its emphasis on sustainable practices.
