ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, in collaboration with WWF-Pakistan and government departments, is preparing a five-year national plan to conserve the Indus river dolphin. The updated strategy aims to protect the species and restore river habitats through coordinated provincial and federal action.
Officials confirmed that the draft plan is currently under consultation with key stakeholders. Hammad Naqi, WWF-Pakistan director general, said shifts in river ecology and emerging threats necessitate a full review of the 2011 action plan.
Consultations have been held with wildlife, fisheries, environment, and irrigation departments from Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Challenges Threatening Dolphin Populations
Naqi noted that dolphin populations in Punjab remain lower than those in Sindh. Unsustainable fishing practices, including illegal or harmful nets, pose the most immediate risk in Punjab. Experts also highlighted reduced river flows, pollution, and riverbank degradation as increasing threats to the species.
Although population estimates vary, numbers have improved in recent decades, showing gradual recovery.
A 2017 survey recorded roughly 1,816 dolphins between Chashma and Sukkur, while current estimates approach 2,000.
Focus on Research and Habitat Restoration
Stakeholders in Islamabad emphasized the need for enhanced scientific research to track population trends.
They recommended long-term monitoring of habitat quality, water-flow patterns, and climate change impacts.
Participants stressed restoring river ecosystems, securing high-risk zones, and enforcing improved water-flow management.
Strong coordination between federal and provincial institutions was identified as critical for the plan’s success.
Proposed Components of the Strategy
The new strategy proposes increasing dolphin numbers through focused protection and rehabilitating wetlands and riverine habitats.
It includes nominating critical sites for Ramsar or UNESCO Man and Biosphere recognition.
The plan calls for stronger law enforcement, expanded rescue and monitoring units, and community engagement initiatives.
Youth awareness programs are also included to foster conservation support at the grassroots level.
Building on Previous Conservation Efforts
The 2011 plan protected the Guddu–Sukkur stretch, established coordination committees, and recommended canal rescue units. It emphasized maintaining environmental flows, reducing harmful nets, and training fishing communities in conservation practices.
Sheikh Muhammad Zahid, additional chief wildlife ranger for south Punjab, confirmed strict enforcement of wildlife laws in dolphin habitats. He added that monitoring and scientific assessments are being strengthened to guide long-term conservation.
Officials believe the new strategy will set a clear direction for the species’ survival and safeguard Pakistan’s freshwater ecosystems.
