PESHAWAR
An amount of Rs74 million was distributed among the 26 communities of Chitral and Kohistan on account of community share in Trophy hunting Programme for the year 2021-22.
Chief Conservator Wildlife Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Dr Mohsin Faroque distributed the cheques at a ceremony held here on Monday at Peshawar, said a handout.
Representatives of 25 Village conservation committees of Chitral and one community from Kohistan participated in the function.
Chief Conservator Forest, Ejaz Qadir this year total amount fetched from the bidding of four permits of Markhor was USD $ 575,500 and the highest bid offered was USD $ 160250 equivalent to Rs 2711623 for single Markhor.
He said the efforts of the communities in conservation practices were worth mentioning, adding that the department will strive to increase the quota for trophy hunting as this programme has produced positive results.
A recent survey conducted in Chitral showed the population of Markhor has increased to above 5000 as compared to 1500-2000 in 2001 he added.
Later on the Chief Conservator Forest Ejaz Qadir, Conservator Forest Gulzar, chief Conservator Wildlife Dr Mohsin Faroque presented the Cheques to the members.
The community on the occasion appreciated the program and role of the wildlife department for timely payments.
The representatives of the both communities also requested the authorities concerned to increase the number of trophy hunting permits as it will not only improve the livelihood condition of local communities but also be helpful in conservation of Markhor and Ibex.
