May 23, 2006	Tuesday	Rabi-us-Sani 24, 1427

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PESHAWAR, May 22: Environmentalists have said that rapid population growth, introduction of exotic species and degradation of habitat across the globe are causing irreparable loss to biodiversity.

They were speaking at a seminar organised by the NWFP wildlife department here on Saturday in connection with the World Biodiversity Day. The seminar was attended by academicians, environmentalists and students of public and private sector institutions.

Speakers expressed concern over depletion of natural resources and called for an awareness campaign to preserve the globe and non-renewable resources for future generations.

They said the loss to biodiversity was affecting food chain and environment.

The chief conservator, NWFP wildlife department, Dr Mumtaz Malik, urged close coordination among various departments to protect biodiversity.

He said that Pakistan had 16 national parks, 225 protected areas, 99 wildlife sanctuaries and 96 game reserves, but the number of such facilities needed to be increased.

He regretted that the country’s precious reserves were declining due to population explosion, poverty and lack of awareness.

Dr Malik said the wildlife department had launched various schemes to protect biodiversity and ensure sustainable use of natural resources.

He said the department had provided technical assistance to land owners who had earmarked 50 acres of land for private game reserves.