RAWALPINDI: During a national event commemorating International Day for Biological Diversity and Markhor Day, climate and wildlife specialists emphasized the urgent need to enhance protection for biodiversity and endangered species such as the markhor and snow leopard.
The gathering, organized collaboratively by the Snow Leopard Foundation, the Ministry of Climate Change, and Fatima Jinnah Women University, united students, scholars, and government representatives to discuss environmental challenges and ongoing conservation initiatives.
In a significant development, Nadeem Ashraf Raja, Director of Biodiversity at the Ministry of Climate Change, highlighted the importance of safeguarding Pakistan’s glaciers, forests, and mountainous ecosystems. He warned that increasing climate pressures are endangering these delicate wildlife habitats.
Meanwhile, Dr. Syed Mahmood Nasir, former Inspector General at the Ministry of Climate Change, underscored that preserving rare species like the snow leopard and markhor is vital for maintaining ecological balance and securing the environment for future generations. He remarked that wildlife conservation is fundamentally linked to protecting nature and ensuring human survival.
Notably, Amna Zuberi, a board member of the Snow Leopard Foundation, revealed that the organization has employed camera trapping and genetic analysis techniques for the first time to scientifically estimate snow leopard populations within Pakistan.
The event also featured an e-poster competition where students showcased research on topics including illegal hunting, wildlife trafficking, climate change, and markhor conservation efforts.
At the conclusion, participants were awarded shields and certificates, with speakers reiterating that conserving biodiversity is crucial for environmental stability and long-term sustainability.
