KARACHI – The destruction caused by the tsunami in Japan’s northern coastal regions conveys a clear message to the relevant authorities in Pakistan that have failed to ensure the protection of mangroves forests along the 1050-km coastline country – considered a natural shield against disasters.
A statement issued by Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) on Saturday stated that serious efforts for the conservation of mangroves are needed from the government, which should learn a lesson from the devastation caused in Japan and the tsunami warnings issued to 53 countries, as the Pakistan’s coastline is also located on a fault line and prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.
The PFF expressed grave concern over the silence of conservationists, oceanographers and environmentalists over mangrove cutting along Karachi coast by influential enjoying government support. Quoting the notification issued by Sindh government on November 2, 2010, declaring mangrove forests in Thatta and Karachi protected zones, the PPF warned that the natural sea plants cannot be chopped for any purpose.
However, the statement added, despite the notification the orders have not been implemented strictly by the government and the mangroves are being cut without any checks for using the land for commercial purposes.
