Karachi: World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Pakistan on Monday stated that the mangrove forest cover has increased in the Indus Delta, from 86,000 hectares (2005) to 130,000 hectares (2021), according to news sources. According to WWF Pakistan, mangrove forests are the lifeline of the Indus Delta and play a significant role in climate change adaptation. These forests protect the population from cyclones and sea storms. Mangroves are also effective carbon storage sites.
Despite the challenges of climate change, water pollution, and decreased water flow, it was reported that the Sindh forest department, in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Pakistan, WWF Pakistan, and local communities, has worked to improve the region’s mangrove cover.
It is important to note that WWF Pakistan revealed that mangrove forests are productive ecosystems and that nearly 500,000 people in the deltaic region rely on their services. Pakistan used to have eight species of mangrove; however, only four are found in the region due to inadequate freshwater flow in the Kotri Barrage. Fortunately, with continued efforts, local mangrove species including the Ceriops Tagal and Aegiceras Corniculatum are being reintroduced.
According to WWF Pakistan Director General Hammad Naqi Khan, mangroves are the first line of defence against tsunamis, cyclones, and other natural catastrophes. He also emphasised the need of freshwater flow in the Indus Delta for mangrove regeneration. Furthermore, the restoration of mangroves improves residents’ livelihoods by replenishing fish stocks.
Furthermore, he stated that WWF Pakistan sought financial assistance from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), as well as WWF Germany. During 3,000 hectares of mangroves have been rehabilitated over the course of the three-year initiative.
According to sources, in the last decade, 14,000 hectares have been restored through different projects. Besides this, women have also participated in the plantations of mangroves and established nurseries of mangroves.
Iqra holds BS in International Relations and is passionate about writing engaging content on trending real estate topics. When not working, she is either spending time with family, shopping, or discussing shows & movies.
