Sanctuary to protect endangered species

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) is poised to take a significant leap forward in its mission to conserve and protect endangered species with the establishment of a state-of-the-art sanctuary at the Margalla Wildlife Rescue & Rehab Centre.

This visionary project, championed by IWMB Chairperson Rina Saeed Khan, aims to provide a safe haven for wildlife and ensure their protection in their natural habitats, particularly the Margalla Hills National Park, by focusing on both rehabilitation and preservation while maintaining the highest standards of care for critically endangered species.

The IWMB has taken decisive steps towards this effort, including the development of cutting-edge medical facilities and partnerships with international experts.

The board also set up a dedicated team of international veterinarians who provide critical consultations and training. "With the guidance of these specialists, we have equipped our teams with the knowledge to address the unique medical challenges faced by endangered species," said IWMB spokesperson Omar Bilal.

Wildlife sanctuaries worldwide, like the IWMB, play a vital role in conservation, and are supported by public involvement and strict legal frameworks. In countries like the United States, facilities such as the San Juan Islands Whale Watch operate under laws like the Endangered Species Act, offering rescue, rehabilitation and long-term care to endangered species. Public donations, volunteering, and educational outreach are key components of these efforts.

In Europe, sanctuaries like the Veszprém Zoo in Hungary and Loro Parque in Spain benefit from regulations such as the EU's Habitats and Birds Directives. These sanctuaries, supported by both public contributions and government funding, blend modern facilities with international collaborations to ensure species preservation.

Global conservation success relies on the combination of legal protection, scientific research and community involvement to safeguard endangered species in their natural habitats.

As the IWMB continues to make strides in animal rescue and rehabilitation, its work to combat wildlife abuse and trafficking has been pivotal. So far, over 500 animals have been rescued and rehabilitated since the centre's inception, with more than 100 species currently undergoing treatment and recovery.

Despite the challenges posed by limited resources and professional expertise in the country, the IWMB remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional care to the animals in its charge.

The IWMB urges the public to play an active role in protecting wildlife by reporting instances of animal cruelty.

As Bilal aptly put it, "The health of our ecosystem depends on the welfare of our animals, and together, we can foster a more compassionate world for all living beings."