GILGIT: A Spanish hunter recently paid a staggering $219,000 (PKR 61.25 million) to hunt a Kashmir markhor in the Ghairat Gol area of Lower Chitral, reigniting debate over trophy hunting practices and the conservation of endangered species in the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region.
The hunt was conducted under the supervision of the Ghairat Conservation Committee and led by Farooq Nabi, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Wildlife Lower Chitral. The hunter, Christian Pablo Abello Gamizo, obtained the permit through a legal auction, which allowed him to hunt a nine-year-old markhor with an impressive horn length of 41.5 inches.
A Culture of Trophy Hunting
Trophy hunting is a regulated practice in Pakistani adminstrated areas of Kashmir, particularly in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, where rare species like the Kashmir markhor are found. Permits are issued through auctions to wealthy foreign hunters, generating significant revenue for the region. In this instance, 80% of the fee will fund local community development projects, while the remaining 20% goes to the national treasury.
The practice has been controversial, with supporters arguing that it incentivizes conservation and benefits local communities. Critics, however, see it as unethical and question the impact of hunting on endangered populations.
Record-Breaking Fees
In December, an American hunter set a record by paying PKR 75 million to hunt a markhor in the Toshi Shah Conservation Area, the highest fee in Chitral’s history. Such high-profile hunts have drawn international attention to Pakistan’s trophy hunting auctions.
Backlash and Calls for Sanctuary
The increasing frequency of these hunts has sparked a backlash from conservationists and locals who are calling for the establishment of a markhor sanctuary in Gilgit-Baltistan. They argue that a sanctuary would protect the markhor from hunting while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable economic growth.
“While trophy hunting generates funds, it also sends a dangerous message about the commodification of endangered species,” said a wildlife expert. Conservationists urge a shift toward non-lethal alternatives, like photo safaris, to balance economic benefits with ethical considerations.
As the debate continues, the future of trophy hunting in Pakistan’s adminstrated areas of Kashmir remains uncertain. With mounting pressure for stricter regulations and alternative conservation strategies, the fate of the majestic markhor hangs in the balance.
