Engro Foundation, in collaboration with WWF-Pakistan, has launched a five-year initiative aimed at conserving the endangered Indus River Dolphin and its habitat. This ambitious effort utilizes globally recognized conservation tools and cutting-edge technologies to ensure the survival of this iconic species.
The Indus River Dolphin faces significant challenges, including habitat pressures from water infrastructure and agricultural water diversion, pollution from various sources, harmful fishing practices such as net entanglement, overfishing, poisoning, and electro-fishing, as well as the risks of stranding in irrigation canals and insufficient management of protected areas. Despite a positive trend noted in the 2017 population survey, the dolphin’s numbers remain critically low, with fewer than 2,000 individuals left. This limited population, combined with its restricted range and ongoing threats, necessitates intensive conservation efforts to ensure its long-term survival.
Engro Foundation’s approach focuses on protecting and managing the dolphin’s habitat to reduce these risks, combining advanced techniques with traditional conservation methods. By promoting collective action and sustainable practices, this initiative aims to safeguard the Indus River Dolphin and preserve it as a vital part of Pakistan’s ecological heritage. Through innovative conservation strategies and collaborative efforts, we are committed to securing the future of this unique species.