By: Kulsoom Baloch
In a shocking expose, Kb Firaq sheds light on the dire situation faced by the marine life and fishing communities in Gwadar District. The post highlights the alarming activities of the Diesel Mafia, causing a disaster for the ecosystem and livelihoods of the local residents. Negligence and political conflicts have allowed these challenges to persist, jeopardizing the delicate balance of the marine environment.
Gwadar, a crucial coastal district in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is home to the renowned Gwadar Port and hosts a diverse range of marine life, including rare and endangered species. However, rampant overfishing has disrupted the natural ecosystem balance, leading to a rapid decline and potential extinction of marine species. Arabian Sea humpback whales, Green turtles, sawfish, and various small fish populations are among those facing drastic reductions or complete disappearance.
The post identifies multiple factors contributing to this crisis. Habitat destruction caused by destructive trawling techniques has decimated feeding and breeding grounds for marine organisms, with long-term consequences for the ecosystem's sustainability. Additionally, coastal development projects, including the construction of ports and infrastructure, have damaged the vital coastal green buffer zone, which serves as nurseries and feeding grounds for numerous marine species and birds.
The Diesel Mafia's activities and unregulated coastal development have resulted in marine pollution, primarily caused by diesel fuel and diesel trade in the region. The pollution introduces harmful chemicals, negatively impacting the health and survival of marine organisms. Local fishermen and stakeholders report the complete disappearance of prawn and Pamphlet fish due to diesel trade and pollution in specific areas like "Kuntani Hor."
Furthermore, the repercussions of climate change, such as rising sea temperatures and sea level rise, pose additional threats to the marine ecosystems of Gwadar District. With increased frequency and severity of extreme events, the region stands as one of the most vulnerable areas to climate change impacts.
The mismanagement of tourism activities in the district exacerbates the challenges. While tourism brings economic benefits, the lack of proper regulations and management has resulted in negative consequences for the coastal environment.
The lack of interest, conflicts, and policy implementation by the authorities have contributed to the negligence of these pressing issues. To safeguard the marine life and the livelihoods of fishing communities in Gwadar District, urgent actions are needed. The implementation of sustainable fishing practices, stringent regulations to prevent habitat destruction, pollution reduction measures, and environmental mitigation efforts are crucial. Additionally, measures to address climate change impacts and promote responsible tourism that respects the marine ecosystem and local communities are imperative.
As Gwadar District faces a potential ecological disaster, it is time for stakeholders and authorities to unite and take decisive action to protect the marine life and fishing communities that depend on the sea for their survival. Failure to act promptly could have irreversible consequences for the district's biodiversity and sustainability.
No comments:
Post a Comment