KARACHI, July 28: Responding to a report in Dawn issue of July 26 on Hingol National Park, a Suparco spokesman said: “Suparco is developing indigenous Polar Satellites under the National Satellite Development Programme. These satellites need to be launched in a southerly direction so that there are no inhabited areas in a cone around the intended launch direction. The general area around Ras Malan valley in Balochistan offers the only suitable location.

“The minimum possible area is being acquired. As satellite launches are infrequent there will be no activity in the area most of the time.

“In fact, the ecology and natural habitat would be better preserved as unauthorised activities that disturb the ecosystem will be restricted and better protected.”