Illegal use of langurs in Gurugram triggers outcry

Gurugram needs a fully equipped, government-recognised wildlife rescue and rehab centre VAISHALI RANA, activist

- Leena Dhankhar

GURUGRAM: More than a year after an urgent Right to Information (RTI) request exposed the absence of an approved wildlife treatment and rescue centre in Gurugram, the situation remains unchanged, sparking concern among conservationists and legal activists. The continuing lack of infrastructure is being seen as a serious threat to the district's wild species, including those protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA).

Filed under Section 7(1) of the RTI Act—which deals with matters of "life and liberty"—the plea had sought details on available wildlife rescue facilities and accountability for previous wildlife deaths caused by inadequate care. In its January 9, 2024, response, the divisional wildlife officer, Gurugram, admitted, "Presently no approved treatment/rescue centre is working under this division." However, no steps have been taken since then to create one.