LAHORE:

Migratory waterfowl have returned to the lakes and ponds of Punjab after two years. The flocks of flamingos, pink herons and other birds have completed their journey to their natural habitats, which is being considered a major success in terms of environmental protection.

According to wildlife department sources, the return of the waterfowl was due to the elimination of illegal hunting and trapping, continuous monitoring and provision of a safe environment.

They said a monitoring system was being implemented for the protection of rare wildlife and birds, the positive results of which were now coming out.

For the first time in Punjab, a patrolling system has been introduced for the protection of waterfowl and wildlife, through which strict surveillance was ensured around water bodies.

The local population was also included in the mission, which is playing an important role in protecting the environment by identifying illegal hunters.

The provision of food for waterfowl was also ensured, which included measures to protect aquatic flora and fauna. The Wildlife Force took strict action against illegal trappers and bird catchers, which had resulted in a reduction in the trend of illegal hunting, the sources added.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the return of flamingos was a result of year-long initiatives.

Environmentalist Dr Mahmood Khalid Qamar the development was good with regard to local environment. The flamingo’s most characteristic habitats are large alkaline or saline lakes or lagoons that usually lack vegetation. Qamar said the protection of the birds, lakes and ecological balance was actually the protection of life. If birds and lakes do not survive, humans will not survive either.

Migratory birds that visit Pakistan every year include the Siberian crane, houbara bustard, bar-headed goose, common crane, European roller ducks, flamingos and swans.