Kirthar faces ecological threats

Kirthar National Park is more than a rugged expanse of mountains and wildlife; it is also a repository of ancient history and a fragile ecosystem increasingly under pressure from human activity, experts said at a conference on Wednesday.

The warning came at the third annual conference held at the Arts Council of Pakistan in memory of late journalist, historian and researcher Gul Hassan Kalmati. Titled "Kirthar National Park: A Human-Made Crisis," the conference brought together wildlife experts, archaeologists, researchers and environmentalists to examine the threats facing Sindh's only national park.

Speakers traced Kirthar's story from its biodiversity and natural resources to its archaeological and cultural wealth, while highlighting the legal, environmental and economic challenges that threaten the park's future.

Wildlife researcher and environmentalist Salman Baloch highlighted the ecological and biological diversity of Kirthar, Sindh's only national park, and discussed the environmental threats confronting the protected area. He also pointed out gaps in the existing legal framework for its protection.

Archaeologist and archaeozoologist Syed Ali Shah Lakiari shed light on the historical sites and ancient heritage of Kirthar, saying the park was not merely a habitat for mountains and wildlife but also contained a rich historical and cultural legacy.

Saeed Chandio discussed economic activity and data related to Kirthar and the surrounding region, highlighting the close links between natural resources, local communities and economic activity.

Wildlife photographer Zohaib Ahmed stressed the importance of education and public awareness for the sustainable future of Kirthar. He called for wildlife education to be made part of the formal education system so that younger generations could develop a stronger connection with nature and biodiversity.

Chief Conservator of the Sindh Wildlife Department Javed Mehr presented findings and data from a detailed survey of the Kirthar mountain range and briefed participants on the area's current condition.

The conference brought together researchers, academics, environmentalists and other experts, including Dr Kaleemullah Lashari, Dr Asma Ibrahim, Dr Rukhman Gul Palari, Kamal Palari and Shahid Moso.

The event also highlighted the legacy of Gul Hassan Kalmati, who belonged to Karachi's historic Kalmat tribe and hailed from Gadap. A journalist, researcher, historian and anthropologist, Kalmati authored several books on the history, culture and heritage of Karachi, Sindh and the wider region. He died in 2023 due to complications from dengue.