Urgent Plea: Heartfelt Alarm as Feral Horse Population Faces Crisis in Dibru Saikhowa’s Fragile Ecosystem

Dibrugarh: Urgent Conservation Efforts Needed for Feral Horses in Dibru Saikhowa National Park

The dwindling population of feral horses in Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa National Park has escalated into a major concern for conservationists and nature enthusiasts. Unique to this region, these horses, descendants of domesticated horses from the colonial era, have adapted to the wild and play an essential role in the park’s ecosystem, aiding in processes such as seed dispersal and soil aeration.

Despite their ecological importance, these animals face numerous threats, including habitat loss, human encroachment, and lack of legal protection under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Their population concerns have drawn attention from the National Green Tribunal, which has called for immediate protective measures from government authorities.

Environmentalists point out the absence of a comprehensive census for these horses and caution against smuggling and the impacts of natural events like floods. A recent incident highlighted the plight when a horse, displaced by flooding, was rescued by locals at Bogibeel.

Dibru Saikhowa National Park, covering an area of 340 square km, also houses diverse fauna, including elephants, wild buffaloes, and hoolock gibbons. Yet, the feral horses remain one of its most celebrated inhabitants, adding to the park’s biodiversity and tourist appeal.

Local communities, with deep cultural ties to these horses, alongside wildlife experts, are calling for urgent conservation strategies to safeguard this rare species. Advocacy for their legal recognition as wild animals and the establishment of protected habitats are being emphasized.

In light of these challenges, it’s imperative for the Assam government and concerned stakeholders to implement targeted conservation actions to preserve the feral horses of Dibru Saikhowa National Park, ensuring this majestic symbol of natural heritage thrives for future generations.

Original Source: https://nenow.in/environment/assam-conservationists-raise-alarm-over-feral-horse-population-drop-in-dibru-saikhowa.html
Category : Assam,Environment,Top News
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Publish Date: 2024-12-19 23:05:00