Plastic pollution wipes out Kabul river's turtles and Sher Mahi fish

Plastic pollution is destroying Kabul River’s ecosystem, endangering wildlife, and harming local livelihoods

Nowshera—Once a thriving haven for aquatic life, the Kabul River is now a shadow of its former self. Severe plastic pollution is poisoning the water and decimating the river’s biodiversity, including the famous Sher Mahi fish (Cupisoma Naziri).

This iconic species, once abundant, has seen a dramatic decline, threatening the livelihoods of fishermen and fish sellers who depend on the river’s resources.

Sher Zameen Shah, a local fish seller, vividly recalls the river’s glory days.

“Twenty to twenty-five years ago, this river was teeming with Sher Mahi, China Fish, Masher Fish, and more. People loved Sher Mahi, and many businesses thrived on its abundance,”

Now, however, the situation is dire.

“There’s a lack of awareness among people. They throw nappies, plastic, and other rubbish into the river, which has led to a dramatic decline in fish populations. Sher Mahi is now so rare that even extensive searches often come up empty-handed.”

Adding to the ecological tragedy, the Kabul River’s turtles have completely vanished. Sair Khan, a local resident, shared his observations:

“Previously, there used to be many turtles basking in the sunlight along the riverbanks. However, the plastic waste and toxic drainage water entering the river pose a severe threat to this marine life. This issue must be addressed urgently.”

The connection between turtles and fish is crucial, as both are part of the river’s delicate ecosystem. Polluted water has disrupted this balance, leading to the disappearance of turtles and further endangering aquatic species.

Plastic pollution is particularly harmful because fish and other marine life often mistake it for food. Consuming microplastics can lead to severe disorders or even death, further depleting the river’s biodiversity. The intertwined fate of turtles, fish, and other aquatic species underscores the urgent need for solutions.

This decline is not just an environmental tragedy but also a socioeconomic crisis. Local fishermen and fish sellers, who have relied on the Kabul River for generations, are finding it increasingly difficult to sustain their livelihoods. The disappearance of Sher Mahi has left a void that no other fish can fill, both economically and culturally.

Promoting reuse and refill systems and supporting businesses that prioritise sustainability are critical steps towards reducing plastic pollution. Furthermore, government intervention is essential. A ban on single-use plastics could significantly alleviate the pollution choking the river and provide a chance for aquatic species like Sher Mahi and turtles to recover.

The plight of the Kabul River and its once-abundant aquatic life is a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action. Without immediate measures, this vital lifeline of Nowshera risks losing its ecological and economic significance entirely.