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The wildlife rescue center in Devnagar, Bharatpur, has undergone a controversial transformation into a tourist attraction, drawing criticism from conservationists. Chitwan National Park's decision to allow tourists to view tigers in cages as part of the promotion for Bharatpur Visit Year 2024 sparked outrage among those advocating for animal welfare. Surajan Shrestha, an animal conservationist, voiced strong objections on social media, denouncing the practice as inhumane and inappropriate.
Shrestha, along with other conservationists, particularly criticized the involvement of organizations like WWF in promoting such activities, emphasizing the need for a focus on habitat conservation rather than exploiting wild animals for entertainment. He announced plans for a protest in front of the Chitwan National Park office to hold accountable those responsible for the decision.
The wildlife rescue center, initiated by Renu Dahal, mayor of Bharatpur Metropolis, now showcases tigers to the public, with plans to expand into an open zoo featuring various wild animals, including rhinos. Presently, the center houses two male tigers relocated from different areas in March 2022. Three tigers are being exhibited to attract tourists, boosting the promotion of tourism in the region.
Chitwan National Park, known for its significant tiger population, boasts 128 adult tigers as per the latest count. However, the move to confine tigers in cages for public viewing has ignited a disputed debate between those prioritizing conservation ethics and those focusing on tourism development. The clash underscores the delicate balance between wildlife protection and economic interests in wildlife-rich regions like Chitwan.
photo credit: istock, dreamstime
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