In a significant move towards environmental conservation, Bank Alfalah has joined forces with WWF-Pakistan to protect the endangered Indus River blind dolphins, committing a substantial Rs. 8.5 million to the cause. This collaboration is aimed at halting the alarming decline of the species and ensuring the preservation of their natural habitat. The Indus River blind dolphin, locally known as ‘Bulhan,’ is considered a national treasure in Pakistan but has seen its population plummet to only 20 percent of its historical range due to a variety of threats.
The partnership between Bank Alfalah and WWF-Pakistan will take a holistic approach to conservation, focusing on community engagement, education, and habitat restoration. As part of the initiative, five community-based organizations (CBOs) will be established in key regions along the Indus River, working directly with local communities to safeguard the dolphins. The project will provide training to 35 fishers, empowering them to adopt sustainable fishing practices that minimize harm to dolphin populations. Additionally, 10 nature clubs will be set up, along with the engagement of 700 students who will be trained as “conservation champions” to advocate for the protection of the Indus River ecosystem.
The Indus River dolphin, a species that is exclusively found in Pakistan, faces numerous threats, including habitat loss due to water diversion, entanglement in fishing nets, and pollution of the river. These factors have contributed to the species being classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The current population of the dolphins has dwindled to a critically low number, making the conservation efforts all the more urgent.
Bank Alfalah’s commitment to the conservation effort is part of the bank’s broader strategy to support environmental sustainability. The bank’s involvement in this project aligns with its corporate social responsibility initiatives, which seek to contribute positively to the environment and communities. Madiha Javed Qureshi, Head of Corporate Communication at Bank Alfalah, commented on the partnership, stating, “Through this collaboration, we aim to engage local communities in safeguarding dolphin habitats, raise awareness about the importance of conservation, and ultimately help grow the population of these unique creatures. This initiative is not just about saving a species; it’s about preserving a natural treasure that holds special significance for Pakistan.”
This partnership is also in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities, and SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. By working with local communities and empowering them to take an active role in conservation, the project is fostering long-term sustainability for the Indus River dolphin population.
The Indus River blind dolphin, often referred to as the “Bulhan,” is an integral part of the river’s ecosystem. As an indicator species, its health reflects the overall state of the river environment. The significant threats the dolphins face are not only a concern for the species itself but also for the broader ecological balance of the Indus River system.
Through this collaboration, Bank Alfalah and WWF-Pakistan aim to bring attention to the urgent need for conservation efforts in Pakistan’s unique river ecosystems. By focusing on community-based solutions and engaging the younger generation in environmental activism, the partnership hopes to create a lasting impact on the conservation of the Indus River blind dolphins and other endangered species in the region.