The project of zulfikarabad is a threat!
Yes, indeed when we look at the area where it’s going to be built is right on Indus delta. Many sub districts of Thatta are also linked in that particular area. Major concerns which oppose the construction of this mega project are as follows:
• Area lies under hazardous environmental and geological risks. Many disasters have already occurred in this region over the last 15years. Cyclone TC-02A (1999), Bhuj Earthquake (2001) and Cyclone Yemyin (2007) are the recent ones. No one would be willing to live in such an area where they are not environmentally safe or protected.
• Elimination of mangroves habitat. The entire site comprises of 54,708 ha mangrove vegetation which is almost 7.20% of total land. These are those mangroves which are protects since 1950’s and are about 50% of remaining mangroves in the country. Mangroves are not only for scenic beauty but also helps populated areas from flooding through hurricanes and cyclones. They act as a barrier and resist the water flow and ease the pressure. So elimination of all mangroves would enhance the environmental and geological risks.
• Increase in livelihood vulnerabilities is very important aspect as the people living in nearby districts haven’t been informed or asked about the new project. Many of their jobs such as fishing, farming and local trading of fishes would be effected and may result in loss of traditional farmers and herders. When the 70% of population is effected the government can’t take action against them.
• Ramsar Convention – Pakistan government is obliged to save the Indus delta from the exploitation under many treaties and acts. Mainly we focus on the Ramsar Convention (1971), which conserves and sustains the wetlands.
• Migratory waterfowls commuting place will be destroyed with the buildings and population. Habitat destruction of distinct species