Srinagar: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Kashmir, Department of Wildlife has established a healthcare-cum-research facility for wild animals at Dachigam National Park in outskirts of Srinagar.
Officials told ‘Kashmir Images’ that the department has set up a facility for critically injured or sick wild animals within Dachigam park. They said the purpose of establishing such a facility is to treat sick or injured wild animals.
“This is the dedicated facility established by the department to treat animals that are either sick or brought in an injured state. We treat injured or sick animals here and later decide whether to rehabilitate them at the facility or set them free in the forest,” Dr Umar Nazir, who is posted as a veterinarian at the facility told ‘Kashmir Images’.
He said the department has also established animal rescue centers equipped with modern gadgetry.
Dr Umar Nazir said the department is also mulling establishing a DNA bank at the facility so as to use the same as a forensic tool and for conservation purposes.
About the facility, he said “our focus remains on setting the animal free in the jungle after treatment, but if it is brought in extremely injured condition, it is rehabilitated here.
“Next is a diagnostic laboratory which is equipped with the latest gadgetry. We also want to establish a DNA bank so as to use it as a forensic tool and for conservation purposes. It will be a stepping stone towards the conservation efforts,” he added.
He said biometric analyzers and USG machines have also been installed so that the wild animals get better treatment and rehab facilities.
