Mangrove cutting for land reclamation at Karachi's Korangi Creek threatens environment

Illegal barriers have been built within a mangrove forest in Karachi's Korangi Creek, interrupting the natural water flow and depriving the mangroves on one side of their vital water source. As the mangroves dry up and perish, they are subsequently chopped down by those engaged in this unlawful land reclamation. The Sindh Forest Department (SFD) informed that the unlawful activity was occurring on its land, but the police declined to intervene, citing that the land had been allocated by the Board of Revenue and the matter was under judicial consideration.

A recent visit to the Korangi Creek area revealed ongoing mangrove cutting and land reclamation adjacent to the Mangrove Biodiversity Park, inaugurated by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab last September. An earthen embankment had been constructed to limit water flow towards the mangroves, and the trees inside the enclosed area were being cut while their remains floated in the stagnant water.

Some sections of the embankment featured a wall, while debris covered portions of the open space in between, transforming the area into a fenced plot. A private security guard was also employed to patrol the land. When questioned by Dawn about the status of the land and the ongoing activity, the SFD dispatched a team for an inspection.

A senior official confirmed their awareness of the issue, stating that the land belonged to the Forest Department and the "illegal allotments" had been made by the Board of Revenue. Though they had attempted to act against such activities multiple times, the matter was disputed in court, preventing the police from taking further action.

The official noted that the practice had been ongoing for several months. The bunds were constructed as a common method for a long time, allowing the mangroves to wither and be cut either by locals seeking firewood or by those involved in encroachment. Experts and conservationists have expressed grave concern over the matter. Rafiul Haq, a climate change expert, warned that the continued loss of mangrove cover would make Karachi's coastal areas more susceptible to natural disasters like tsunamis and hurricanes, as mangroves act as a natural barrier.

He called for an immediate halt to the mangrove cutting. Masood Lohar, another climate change expert, confirmed that the issue extended beyond the isolated area, with mangrove cutting occurring in various parts of Karachi and along the Indus Delta. He termed the situation "very concerning" and warned of potential severe flooding in areas like Korangi and DHA if mangroves were lost.

Environmentalist Tariq Alexander Qaiser emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to safeguard the city's remaining mangrove and tree cover, highlighting their significance in climate change mitigation. "All existing mangroves need to be protected. They are essential to the health of our city. They and other trees are a primary defense against climate change. Karachi cannot afford to lose its remaining green cover," he stated.