Global declaration signed to save river dolphins

Local communities to help intensify conservation initiatives

LAHORE:

In a ground-breaking development, 11 Asian and South American countries have signed a global declaration, the "Global Declaration for River Dolphins," aimed at preserving the world's six remaining river dolphin species, including the endangered Indus River dolphin exclusive to Pakistan.

The population of Pakistan's endangered Indus River dolphins has nearly doubled over the past two decades, thanks to concerted efforts by the government, communities, and NGOs, including WWF-Pakistan.

Nonetheless, with only around 2,000 Indus River dolphins remaining, WWF-Pakistan is collaborating with local communities to intensify conservation initiatives and combat the threats these creatures face.

These efforts encompass pollution reduction, enhancing the dolphin's habitat, freeing dolphins entangled in fishing gear, and rescuing those trapped in irrigation canals.

Endorsed by range states in Asia and South America, spanning from Pakistan to Colombia, the Global Declaration for River Dolphins seeks to reverse the decline of all river dolphin species and bolster vulnerable populations.

The declaration will escalate collaborative endeavours to safeguard the surviving river dolphin species. Key aspects include developing and financing strategies to eliminate gillnets, reduce pollution, expand research, and establish additional protected areas.

On a global scale, river dolphin populations have diminished by 73% since the 1980s.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 25^th, 2023.