Sanctuary goals to preserve Punjab’s largest inhabitants of endangered Indus River dolphins
The Punjab authorities has declared a stretch of the Indus River with the best focus of the endangered Indus River dolphin within the province because the “Punjnad Indus River Dolphin Wildlife Sanctuary”, marking a big step in the direction of the conservation of the uncommon freshwater species and its habitat.
The transfer has been welcomed by conservationists and the World Large Fund for Nature Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan), which described the notification as a significant milestone for dolphin conservation and the safety of the Indus River ecosystem.
In line with an official notification, the river stretch from Jambar-Bait Landi Patafi to Guddu Barrage has been designated as a wildlife sanctuary underneath the Punjab Protected Areas Act 2020. The initiative goals to guard the pure habitat of the Indus River dolphin and different aquatic and wildlife species whereas selling biodiversity conservation.
WWF-Pakistan mentioned the declaration would strengthen Pakistan’s community of protected areas and mirror the nation’s dedication to biodiversity conservation. The organisation additionally acknowledged the efforts of Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb in facilitating the initiative.
South Punjab Wildlife Ranger Extra Chief Sheikh Muhammad Zahid mentioned the Punjnad-Guddu stretch of the Indus River was thought-about crucial habitat for the Indus River dolphin in Punjab and supported the best recorded inhabitants of the species within the province.
He mentioned the river part offered appropriate situations for feeding, breeding and motion of the dolphins, making authorized safety of the world a conservation precedence.
“The brand new wildlife sanctuary is not going to solely assist safeguard the pure habitat of the Indus River dolphin however may even strengthen the safety of all the aquatic ecosystem of the Indus River, together with native fish species and different aquatic life,” he mentioned.
In line with WWF-Pakistan, the Indus River stays the final main pure habitat of the endangered Indus River dolphin, one of many world’s rarest freshwater dolphin species. Conservation consultants estimate that round 2,000 dolphins at the moment survive within the wild, underscoring the significance of defending their remaining habitat.
Environmental consultants say adjustments in river flows, air pollution, unlawful searching, and rising human actions have intensified threats to the dolphin’s habitat. Nevertheless, they consider the institution of the brand new wildlife sanctuary will strengthen ongoing conservation efforts and contribute to the long-term survival of the species.
