Punjab losing safe haven for migratory birds

Experts have warned that Punjab, once regarded as a major winter refuge for millions of migratory birds, is increasingly becoming vulnerable because of water scarcity, smog, habitat destruction and unchecked urban expansion.

Head of the Department of Zoology at University of the Punjab Dr Zulfiqar Ali said Pakistan lies on Flyway Number Four, also known as the Green Route, one of the world's seven major migratory bird routes. He said millions of birds enter Pakistan annually through Khunjerab, Peshawar, Quetta and routes along the Iranian border. According to him, Pakistan has around 225 wetlands, including 19 internationally recognised Ramsar sites. Punjab's major Ramsar sites include Head Marala, Taunsa Barrage Wildlife Sanctuary, Uchhali Wetland Complex and the Salt Range Wetlands.

These wetlands consist of lakes, marshes, riverbanks and reservoirs that provide seasonal habitats for migratory birds arriving from Siberia, Central Asia and other regions during winter.

Taunsa Barrage Wildlife Sanctuary is considered one of Pakistan's most ecologically important wetlands, supporting large populations of ducks, cranes, flamingos and other waterfowl.

The sanctuary also plays a key role in preserving the Indus River ecosystem, aquatic vegetation and the endangered Indus dolphin.

Dr Zulfiqar Ali said recent research conducted near Head Marala recorded nearly a 70 per cent decline in migratory bird populations due to reduced water flow in the Chenab River, which has caused natural lakes and marshes to shrink. He added that smog, air pollution and illegal hunting were further threatening bird populations.