Sindh Bans Bird Trapping Nets For 90 Days

Sindh has imposed a 90-day ban on the installation and use of nets to trap birds in three districts along the lower Indus Delta. Starting September 13 and ending December 11, the cities of Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin will be off-limits for catching quails, migratory birds, and native birds. This measure was prompted by reports of illegal trapping activities near wetlands and natural habitats as migratory birds start arriving early for the 2026-27 hunting season.

Sindh's chief wildlife official, Javed Ahmed Mahar, explained that the ban is necessary to protect the Thatta-Badin-Sujawal region, which serves as the final stage of the Indus Flyway for migrating birds and is particularly affected by illegal hunting. Mahar stated that illegal trapping and trade using nets have become a widespread problem, with hunters capturing thousands of birds annually.

Some of these individuals use fraudulent permits and forged licenses to avoid detection. The ban allows police to file charges under Pakistan's Penal Code Section 188 against those who violate the regulation. The wildlife department has also encouraged citizens to report any suspected illegal hunting sites, assuring that the identities of those providing information will be kept confidential.

Mahar emphasized that the use of counterfeit licenses for capturing and trading falcons, ducks, and quails is illegal and breaches both domestic laws and international conservation agreements.