LEEPA VALLEY (Kashmir English): Azad Kashmir’s beautiful Leeppa Valley, famous for its natural beauty, lush forests and rare wildlife, is on the verge of environmental destruction.
Due to illegal hunting and rampant deforestation, the wildlife of the region has been severely threatened, while government measures seem inadequate.
Azad Kashmir’s dense forests, snow-capped mountains and lush valleys provide a natural habitat for rare wildlife, but due to recent environmental changes and human interference, the wildlife has faced serious threats.
The wild animals found in Leepa Valley include snow leopard, black and brown bear, musk deer, markhor, urial, Himalayan jackal, and monkey, and are an important part of the natural balance of the region.
In addition, many rare birds, including golden pheasant, chakor, pigeon, hawk, Himalayan nightingale, vulture, and wild duck, also make their habitat in these forests.
Wild cats, Himalayan rabbits, snakes, and other reptiles are also common near rivers and lakes in Leepa Valley.
However, due to illegal hunting, indiscriminate deforestation and climate change, the survival of these rare animals and birds has been threatened, and urgent and effective measures are crucial for their protection.
The forests once echoed with the chirping and sounds of rare birds and animals, now descended into unusual silence.
Due to illegal hunting and destruction of natural habitat, rare wildlife is suffering irreparable damage, which if not remedied, may lead to extinction of these precious species forever.
Locals have demanded immediate steps from the government to protect wildlife and the natural environment.
