Poets have written about the natural beauty of Keenjhar Lake, which has remained a habitat for migratory birds since decades, but now the birds have disappeared and the lake’s beauty is diminishing, said educationist Rasool Bux Dars.
He was speaking at a seminar organised at Keenjhar Lake by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Pakistan’s under the Indus For All Programme to observe the World Tourism Day. “The government authorities concerned must take measures to stop discharge of untreated industrial and domestic waste into the lake,” he said. “There are many places in Sindh that can be turned into tourist spots.”
Speaking on the occasion, writer and historian Badar Abro said that tourism potential in Sindh has not been exploited. “There are more than 2,000 archaeological sites in Sindh, out of which 200 are located in Thatta alone. Thatta has remained the capital of the province for 350 years and a considerable number of historic places are located here,” he added. “The communities in Thatta should not wait for others and start working on a self-help basis to preserve historic monuments and tourist places.”
Abro appreciated the concept of nature clubs set up by the WWF Pakistan to sensitise students about ecology and environment. WWF Programme Coordinator Nasir Ali Panhwar said that ecotourism is defined as tourism that involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery, wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects found in the areas.
Speaking on the theme for the day, he said that linking cultures with tourism is essential. “The culture of Sindh provides immense potential for promoting tourism. The province provides huge diversity in terms of its natural environment, built environment, archaeological sites and living culture,” he added. “The government must construct approach roads to various tourist sites, construct rest areas, provide public and private transport to the sites and conduct organised tours.”
Travels and Cultures Services Chief Executive Officer Jamal Panhwar said that the current situation of tourism in the province is deplorable. “Two decades ago, a great number of tourists from abroad used to visit Moenjodaro, Keenjhar Lake and the other places of historic importance. However, nowadays, they are reluctant to come due to security reasons,” he pointed out. “Tourism can generate income and provide a good opportunity to learn about other cultures. Even though the Indus and Egyptian civilizations have many similarities, this has not been capitalised in Pakistan.”
WWF Site Manager Hafeezullah said that ecotourism helps in the economic uplift of the people, as it generate funds for government and creates job opportunities for locals. Fizza Shah, Raheela Memon, Irshad Gandro, Shakeel Memon and others also spoke on the occasion. Students from the nature clubs of Keenjhar and Keti Bunder presented tableau and delivered speeches at the event.
Once inspiration for poets, Keenjhar left with little now
