Everybody knows that Hangul is special
Hangul: Pride of Kashmir
Fida Ali Lankar (Rising Kashmir)
Hangul or Red Deer (Kashmir Stag) is mostly found in Dachigam. It feeds on broad leaves of herbs and shrubs. A large number of tourists attract Dachigam National Park because of “Hangul”. Mostly foreign tourists are fond of Hangul. The extent of the where Hangul used to feed used to be was very vast, but because of encroachments it has reduced to a great extent. Another factor that is disturbed the life of Hangul is that during summer flocks of sheep and goats come from distant areas for grazing in meadows and hilltops, creating disturbances in the months of May and June which is the period for Hangul to breed. The huge flocks of sheep pose threat to Hangul as they are being accompanied by dogs. Sometimes a young Hangul falls prey to these dogs which results in the decrease in the number of Hanguls.
As if the threat of summer grazing by sheep and goats of Bakerwals were not enough, a government sheep breeding farm took a four square mile chunk out of the lower Dachigam area which was a prime habitat of Hangul. This farm laid a claim to the grassland on the south facing slopes of Dachigam up to the “Droophama”, VIP bungalow and a little beyond. These grasslands are a rarity and were already getting affected because of sheep grazing. The presence of sheep naturally increases the danger of disease as was illustrated in 1977 when a Capdone Hangul in an enclosure died of Shane’s disease. This was believed to have spread from nearly sheep farm. This farm continued to pose problems for the winter feeding. Up to 1987 the Hangul were seen at the entrance point of Dachigam Park. But due to encroachment from last 10 decades Hangul is now rarely visible in this area.
It is heartening to find out that the Wildlife Department has played a very vital role in the preservation of all the wild animals including Hangul. Due to prevailing turmoil extra burden came on the shoulder of Wildlife Department, preferably ward and watch employee. The number of Hangul, which as per latest census is about 180, would have been less due to turmoil and other unfavorable conditions had the employees not put in their bit.
We must note the fact that besides saving Hangul from dangers, new methods must be applied for their artificial breeding as is applicable in various countries of the world. Further Government sheep breeding farm may be shifted to some other places to do away with the apprehension of diseases as well and to restore the earlier catchment area.