Rare brown bears face new threat in Deosai

The vast plains, snow-covered mountains, alpine pastures and crystal-clear lakes of Deosai National Park are among Pakistan's most beautiful natural landscapes. The area is also an important habitat of the Himalayan brown bear. However, increasing tourism, camping, food remains and plastic waste have increased pressure on the sensitive ecosystem. Located at an altitude of around 4,114 metres above sea level between Skardu and Astore, Deosai is known in the local Balti language as "Ghab-i-Yarsa", meaning "place of summer". Due to severe cold, the area remains inaccessible for most of the year, while it is also linked to traditional pastures, natural resources and folk traditions of local communities. Deosai has historically served as an important route between Kashmir and Gilgit. According to the Gilgit-Baltistan Forest and Wildlife Department, the area was declared a national park in 1993 primarily to protect the Himalayan brown bear and its habitat. The Himalayan brown bear, Ursus arctos isabellinus, is among the prominent wildlife species found in Deosai. Its population in Pakistan has been affected by poaching and habitat loss. However, the establishment of Deosai National Park and long-term conservation measures have provided the species an opportunity for recovery in the area. A 2022 survey estimated the presence of around 66 Himalayan brown bears in Deosai and its buffer valleys, with the possible population estimated at between 58 and 77. The survey also highlighted the need for continuous monitoring of the population and improved habitat management. According to photographer Asif Ashoor, who was present in Deosai, tourist waste discarded at some locations is attracting brown bears towards food remains. He said pieces or remains of plastic shopping bags had also been observed in bear droppings and urine. These observations do not constitute conclusive evidence that bears are ingesting plastic, but they require scientific investigation. The concern cannot be ignored because a previous study on the diet of Deosai's brown bears had reported evidence of plastic, food packaging and other waste in faecal samples. The 2022 survey recorded 12 campsites, 66 tents and 173 people inside Deosai, while around 4,834 livestock associated with these camps were grazing there. Another six locations were also providing restaurants, shops and accommodation facilities for tourists. Clearing Deosai of tourists is not the solution, but regulating tourism under clear environmental principles is essential.