Chitwan: The Chitwan National Park (CNP) has strategically installed ‘spy cameras’ to enhance surveillance and control potential poaching activities within the park’s boundaries. These surveillance measures aim to bolster the security efforts in the sensitive areas of the national park.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the cameras have been placed in various strategic locations, as maintaining a physical security presence throughout the entire park is challenging. Information Officer at CNP, Abinas Thapa Magar, emphasized that the deployment of these cameras helps monitor potential poaching points, which are often difficult to patrol continuously.
In addition to the spy cameras, elephants are increasingly being utilized for patrolling activities in and around the park. A total of 30 spy cameras have been discreetly installed in areas deemed sensitive, capturing snapshots of human movement to aid in monitoring efforts. These areas have also experienced enhanced patrolling by the Nepal Army to further
deter poaching activities.
A contingent of 90 Army personnel from various battalions has been deployed to support the regular security team, particularly in areas that are inaccessible to park staff and regular security forces. This contingent is stationed at the park for a three-month period to assist with wildlife conservation efforts, as noted by Information Officer Magar.
The risk of wildlife poaching is notably higher during the monsoon season when local communities are occupied with agricultural activities, making it a challenging time for conservation efforts. The ongoing campaign to control poaching faces additional hurdles during this season, posing significant challenges to the security and conservation initiatives at CNP.