Mangroves under threat

Karachi has historically been protected from storms and cyclones that often shift course away from the region. While many believe there is an element of spirituality tied to this phenomenon, mangroves play an essential role in this natural defence. These resilient coastal forests act as nature’s bulwark, shielding Karachi and the broader Pakistani coastline from the fury of natural disasters.

Their importance further extends beyond their protective function as they play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and mitigating rising temperatures. But despite these benefits, mangroves are constantly threatened by deforestation, urban development and climate change. The Indus Delta, once home to eight mangrove species, now supports only four. Chief Conservator of the Forest Department, Riaz Ahmed Wagan points out that maintaining a minimum freshwater discharge of 10 million acre-feet into the delta is vital for sustainable mangrove management. Without this, the decline will continue, further endangering our natural defences. However, more integrated approaches are needed. Experts like KU Dean Faculty of Science, Prof Dr Masarrat Jahan Yousuf, advocate for collaboration between biologists and zoologists to enhance our ecosystems. Practical steps, such as enforcing stricter regulations and promoting sustainable community practices are imperative. Moreover, undertaking large-scale mangrove restoration projects, including planting new mangroves and rehabilitating degraded areas, can help increase mangrove coverage. These efforts have already positioned Pakistan as a global leader in mangrove restoration, but continued investment and expansion are necessary.

Another essential aspect that has been overlooked is the integration of mangrove conservation into broader climate change mitigation strategies and incorporating mangrove conservation in national and international climate policies and funding mechanisms. The future of our coastal resilience and climate stability hinges on our ability to protect and restore our mangrove forests.