Political move? Provincial wildlife conservator transferred

The controversial transfer of the department's most active conservator has raised questions

KARACHI: The provincial conservator, Javed Ahmed Mahar, a prominent official in the Sindh wildlife department, was transferred on Monday and has been replaced by Saeed Akhtar Baloch.

Mahar is considered the most active conservator in the department. He has made remarkable developments within the department and has done tremendous work creating awareness about the importance of wildlife.

Pakistan repatriated over 200 black pond turtles from China for the first time in the history of the country under Mahar's leadership. Customs officials foiled several turtle smuggling attempts during his tenure, while two cases were filed against turtle smugglers.



Due to his efforts as the provincial conservator, two prominent laws, the Turtle Law and the Anti-Bear Baiting Law were passed, forcing smugglers to abandon the illegal trade of animals and birds. Official sources said that while Mahar served in the department for only 18 months, he brought both national and international fame for the Sindh wildlife department. "He strengthened the department and brought honour to us," an official commented on the condition of anonymity. He said that Sindh's wildlife department has become more prominent and active than the other provinces' departments due to efforts of Mahar. "It is political victimisation. Those who want to work are transferred," he added.

Sources said that most senior officials were unhappy with Mahar as he hindered illegal activities, such as bird and animal hunting.

The newly appointed conservator, Baloch, has specialised in wildlife management and is considered one of the most senior officials in the department. "I'll try to bring more changes in my department and will disseminate the true importance of wildlife," Baloch told The Express Tribune.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 13^th, 2015.