I am writing this to draw attention to the critical issue of endangered species in Pakistan, a matter that demands immediate attention and action. The rich biodiversity of the nation is under severe threat, with numerous species facing the risk of extinction.
The primary cause of the most major threats to the animals of Pakistan are the Pakistanis themselves, through various activities such as; deforestation and cleaning of land for agriculture and human settlement, which leads to habitat loss for these animals exposing them to danger of migrating to unfamiliar habitat where survival stakes are low. Hunting these animals for meat, skin, or parts of their bodies has led to a significant decrease in their population. Not only wildlife is endangered, but marine life is also on the brink of extinction.
According to various sources, the most endangered species in Pakistan as of 2023 are the Snow Leopard and the Indus River Dolphin. Pakistan is part of the snow leopard’s range across Central and South Asia. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), there is an estimated global population of only 6,000 to 6,500 Snow Leopards, including a mere 300 to 400 in Pakistan. The presence of snow leopards is often an indicator of a healthy mountain ecosystem. Merely, 25pc of their worldwide habitat is protected. They are facing a threat of extinction in Pakistan. Hence, their conservation is very important. Secondly, the Indus River Dolphin, which is native to Pakistan, is sadly endangered as of 2023. The presence of Indus River Dolphins serves as an indicator of the health of the river ecosystem. Indus River Dolphin is one the rarest freshwater water dolphins, they also hold cultural significance in Pakistan. According to WWF, approximately 2,000 specimens of this species exist in a small fraction of their former range. Their conservation and protection require immediate attention.
Previously, Pakistan’s national animal, Markhor was listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 1994 due to overhunting for meat and horns, and its population was estimated to be less than 2,500 at that time. However, its population doubled in 3 decades due to conservational efforts by the government of Pakistan. As of 2022, its population was estimated to be around 5,000 to 6,000.
The government, environmental organizations, and citizens need to unite and implement strong conservation strategies. Pakistan’s natural heritage is at stake, and the time to act is now. Everyone should come together to protect and preserve these endangered species for the sake of the environment, future generations, and the planet at large.
Shifa Aziz Memon, Karachi
