Section 149: Prohibition of encroachment of natural heritages

1) No person shall, except in accordance with law, encroach or possess, in any way, any natural heritage, or sell or distribute such heritage, or cause any harm, loss or damage to its natural structure or beauty, in any way.

Explanation: For the purposes of this Section, the term “natural heritage” means any of the following heritages:

(a) A national park, wildlife or hunting reserve designated by the Government of Nepal for the protection of the natural environment, vegetation and wildlife,

(b) A conservation area designated by the Government of Nepal, river, rivulet, stream, lake, wetland or natural waterfall, snow-peak or any part thereof, higher mountain peak,

(c) A wildlife, vegetation or landscape protected by the law in force in the Government of Nepal, State Government or Local Level,

(d) A habitat of wildlife protected by the Government of Nepal, State Government or Local Level, eco-system, or any medicinal herb which is prohibited for sale, distribution, export or import.

2) A person who commits, or causes to be committed, the offence referred to in sub-section (1) shall be liable to a sentence of imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years and a fine equal to the claimed amount if such amount is specified. A fine not exceeding one million rupees if such amount is not specified, or both sentences.