Gun holders close to wetlands asked to deposit weapons

In order to save the migratory birds from poaching, authorities today directed licensed gun holders in the 5-km radius of famous wetlands including Dal Lake and Hokersar to deposit their weapons with concerned police stations forthwith.
"All the persons holding Arms Licenses and living within the five kilometers of Shallibug, Hokersar wetlands and Dal Lake to deposit their guns in their concerned police stations against a proper receipt," an official spokesman said citing the order of Additional District Magistrate, Srinagar.
Lakhs of migratory birds from different parts of the world visit the wetlands of Kashmir to avoid severe extreme cold in their native habitat.

The spokesman said the directive followed reports that poachers remain hell bent on killing the winged visitors in the wetlands.
"Government has initiated many steps to safeguard the lives of the guest birds who usually stay in the valley till April ending," the spokesman said.