Disappearing migrants

Mainstream coverage of environmental degradation often limits itself to issues that directly impact the human population, such as climate change and plastic pollution. We worry about the intensifying heat and the effects of plastic waste on our environment but neglect the overarching effects of our own behaviours on the animal kingdom. Migratory birds have long been an important part of Pakistan's ecosystem but in recent decades, their population has been facing a slow and painful decline. And while it is true that the preservation of our ecosystem ultimately benefits our own selves, we also have a responsibility towards nature that extends beyond human advantages.

For decades, hundreds of thousands of birds have made their annual trip to Pakistan from Serbia through the international migration route known as Indus Flyway during harsh winter seasons. Now with a flagrant increase in pollution, illegal trade and excessive hunting, these birds are facing population loss. During the early 2000s, what used to be regular migration of around one million birds has now declined to about 500,000 to 700,000 birds.

This tragic decline is the direct result of both harmful human activities as well as governmental neglect. Haleji Lake is considered one of Asia's largest bird sanctuaries but since Karachi's water supply source was shifted from Haleji to Keenjhar Lake, the government has failed to manage its upkeep, allowing stagnant water to accumulate pollutants. Keenjhar Lake, on the other hand, is a major hub for illegal trading in winters. Residents have built up businesses based on selling migratory birds for meat despite a ban and multiple arrests.

In general, the degradation of wetlands, rivers and coastal habitats has contributed to the threats to migratory birds. Their lives depend on conservation efforts from the government, educational bodies, local communities and citizens. We must protect them by restoring the ecosystem to what it once was.