KARACHI, March 15: An urgent and pragmatic approach was suggested for protection of the rich but severely threatened biodiversity of Sindh.

The recommendation was made at a workshop organized by the Sindh Planning and Development Department and IUCN - The World Conservation Union here on Tuesday. Experts from government and private institutions at the workshop called for an institutional mechanism to combat factors threatening the rich biodiversity of Sindh.

It may be mentioned here that recommendations forwarded at the workshop as the biodiversity strategy would be part of Sindh Strategy for Sustainable Development.

Sindh Secretary Environment Shamsul Haq Memon minced no words in mentioning that majority of floral species pertaining to Sindh had been wiped out as there had been no institutional mechanism to mange the province-based flora. He observed that fauna of Sindh was also being managed unscientifically without any provision for trained human resources.

“Biodiversity action plan though has been developed it is yet to be implemented in Sindh,” the secretary said underscoring need to undertake research on wildlife besides concrete measures to develop linkages between concerned departments and academic institutions.

Shamsul Haq Memon was little reluctant to acknowledge that gas exploration had affected the biodiversity in province. He suggested establishment of private game reserves which could further be promoted through community participation.

Abrar Mirza, the former conservator of Sindh Wildlife Department, stressed need for devolution of wildlife right up to district levels so that policies and programmes could be implemented effectively.—APP