Islamabad (Web Desk): Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik on Tuesday highlighted the urgent need for collective and well-planned action to combat the growing challenges of climate change.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Indus Dolphin Ambulance, introduced by Zong in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), he said the worsening effects of climate change are posing serious risks to aquatic ecosystems and Pakistan’s environmental legacy.
The minister said the Indus Valley is recognised as one of the world's oldest living civilizations, while the Indus River is the only natural habitat of the endangered Indus blind dolphin, a species that reflects the country's unique ecological and cultural heritage.
He stressed that protecting the rare freshwater dolphin is a responsibility shared by everyone and called for stronger efforts to preserve biodiversity along with the country's freshwater resources.
Dr Malik noted that rising climate-related threats are damaging rivers, wildlife and aquatic species, making unified and effective climate initiatives more critical than ever.
He acknowledged the continued commitment of both the federal and provincial governments towards conserving the Indus blind dolphin, saying their sustained efforts have contributed significantly to the protection of the species and its natural habitat.
Malik also commended Zong and WWF for introducing the Indus Dolphin Ambulance, describing the project as a forward-looking initiative that will improve the rescue, treatment, rehabilitation and conservation of the endangered mammal.
The minister urging government institutions, conservation organisations and all other stakeholders to work together for the protection of rivers, wildlife and the natural environment, emphasizing that conserving biodiversity is essential to building a sustainable future for the generations ahead.