Mangroves termed helpful for local livelihoods

THATTA:

Mangrove forests in Pakistan are under threat from illegal logging, pollution, land reclamation, and climate change.

Despite these challenges, it was necessary to work for their conservation, emphasised speakers at a workshop on World Mangroves Day, organized by WWF-Pakistan at Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST) ZABTech in Gharo, Thatta.

Majid Sheikh, Assistant Commissioner of Keti Bundar and Ghorra Bari, described these forests as natural barriers against coastal erosion, sea intrusion, and extreme weather events.

Sheikh also emphasized the economic benefits of mangroves, such as supporting fisheries and providing resources for local livelihoods.

WWF-Pakistan Marine Project Manager Jawad Umer Khan noted that despite various challenges, the mangrove cover in the Indus Delta has increased from 86,000 hectares in 2005 to over 200,000 hectares in 2024.

University of Karachi Institute of Environmental Studies Profr Amir Alamgir underscored the critical role of youth in conservation efforts.

Sindh Environmental Protection Agency Assistant Director Dr Fakhruzzaman emphasised the need for collaboration with local communities to sustain conservation efforts. Mehreen Iqbal Soomro, District Child Protection Officer highlighted the involvement of women and children in nature conservation efforts, noting their close connection with local environments.

Students from coastal communities performed poetry and tableau that emphasized the cultural and ecological significance of mangroves and the coastal ecosystem.