Katarniaghat, 1st July 2025: As part of the Van Mahotsav 2025 celebrations (July 1–7), the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, has launched the ‘Aapka Prahari’’—a public awareness campaign at the Gram Panchayat Sachivaly of Karikot village in Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary on 30th June 2025.

Originally introduced in Pilibhit earlier this year, the initiative is now being extended to Katarniaghat. It focuses on reducing human–big cat interactions in forest fringe villages, sensitising local communities about human-wildlife conflict, and helping mitigate potential risks in these vulnerable zones.

Community sensitisation meeting hosted by WTI and UP Forest Department  | Photo by Team WTI

Ahead of the launch, a community sensitisation meeting was held by WTI and the Forest Department with the participation of local villagers, Gram Pradhans, farmers, Panchayat Samiti members, and the Headmaster of the local primary school. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Surendra Srivastava, RFO, stated that reducing human-wildlife conflict and ensuring safety for all is the top priority. He added that this goal can be achieved through continuous cooperation with WTI and active involvement from the community. It was emphasised that the success of the ‘Prahari’ initiative depends on the collective commitment to the preventive measures being shared.

As part of the campaign, two e-rickshaws were officially flagged off by Range Officer Mr. Surendra Kumar Srivastava and Gram Pradhan Representative Mr. Keshavram, along with the Terai Tiger Project (KWLS) team. They will patrol the villages during key hours—4–7 AM and 6–9 PM—to alert and inform residents. 

E-ricks will patrol the villages and play the Public Service Announcement to alert and sensitise residents  | Photo by Team WTI

WTI Field Officer Archit Mishra highlighted that “Awareness is the first step to safety.” He elaborated that the “Aapka Prahari” vehicles will travel across conflict-prone areas, including Azamgarh Purwa in Nishangadha Range and Ayodhyapurwa in Sujauli Range. The vehicles will also disseminate information through audio messages and distribute informative pamphlets to raise awareness about human-wildlife conflict and forest laws.