CHITRAL: To protect dwindling animal populations, the local community and wildlife authorities have joined hands to launch a creative conservation campaign at the Tooshi-Shasha Community Managed Game Reserve, using art as a powerful tool to sensitise the public to the endangered species.

The Seen Village Conservation Committee and Chitral wildlife division organised the community awareness event to inspire the locals, particularly youth, to protect and preserve the region’s rich yet vulnerable wildlife resources.

The Tooshi-Shasha Game Reserve is globally renowned as a primary habitat for the iconic flare-horned markhor and other mountain wildlife.

Because the reserve relies heavily on community-managed conservation, engaging the local community living on the fringes of these habitats is a key step in the right direction. By anchoring the event here, organisers aimed to reinforce the direct link between community pride and wildlife survival.

During the event, local artists used canvas and charcoal to bring the region’s biodiversity to life. Participants drew detailed sketches and striking portraits of various iconic species indigenous to the area.

Each artwork was paired with a poignant message highlighting the ecological importance of wildlife resources and the urgent need to protect them from poaching and habitat loss. The visual medium was chosen to transcend language barriers and create an emotional connection between the youth and nature.

Senior administrative and forestry officials lauded the community’s proactive approach.

Chitral assistant commissioner Adnan Haider Malooki was the chief guest. Divisional forest officer Rizwanullah Yousafzai was also present.

Addressing the gathering, the officials emphasised that the core theme of the event was to mobilise the youth. They stressed that the younger generation must play a proactive role in halting the decline of endangered species. The speakers noted that sustainable conservation is impossible without the active vigilance and support of local communities.

Prizes and commendation certificates were distributed among the participating artists and youth to acknowledge their creative contributions to the cause of environmental preservation.

Published in Dawn, October 27th, 2026