KARACHI, June 1: Nazim Naimatullah Khan has called for protection as well as speedy growth of mangroves in all the creeks of Karachi coast for beautification of coastal areas as well as promoting tourism.

He issued a directive in this regard after a five-hour visit of 65- kilometre-long coastal-belt from Rerhi Goth to Glasso Creek, Bin Qasim.

He was accompanied by DCO Karachi Shafiqur Rehman Paracha and officials of Sindh Forest Department and Parks Department of City Government.

On the occasion, the Nazim was informed that there were 17 creeks in Pakistan’s territorial waters while special attention was being paid to the growth of mangroves in five creeks of Karachi.

It was pointed out that Pakistan has the biggest growth of mangroves spread over 17,000 acres which are a source of attraction for tourists.

He was informed that over 60 million mangroves were grown on an area of 6,000 hectares during the last four years.

In the briefing, the advantages of mangroves were highlighted which include fish multiplication, reduction in environmental pollution besides beautification of sea side. Naimatullah Khan was informed that the forest department is paying attention to maximum growth of mangroves in its creeks. The City Government, he said, had prepared a coordinated programme for tourism promotion and Rerhi Goth and Glasso Creek would also be included in this programme.—APP