SRINAGAR: Dachigam National Park has been closed to visitors until October 31 to protect the endangered Hangul deer during its annual breeding season, with authorities restricting public entry and continuing a ban on private vehicle movement inside the protected area.
In-charge Ranger of Dachigam National Park Rayees Ahmad Reshi told Kashmir News Service that the closure was ordered by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) to ensure a disturbance-free environment during the animals’ rutting season.
He said the breeding period begins around September 25 and continues for nearly one-and-a-half months, making it important to minimise human interference.
The restrictions have been imposed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act and the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Rules, 2024, Reshi said, adding that the park would reopen to visitors on November 1.
During the closure, entry will be restricted to authorised departmental employees, while access for security-related purposes will be permitted wherever necessary.
Reshi said the ban on private vehicles inside the park had been imposed under an earlier departmental order and would remain in force.
He also reported encouraging signs in the park’s wildlife population in recent months but did not provide updated census figures.
The temporary closure is aimed at allowing the endangered Hangul population to breed with minimal disturbance before visitor access resumes next month. (KNS)
