The plantation move will help restoring the lost mangrove forest shield with building resilience of the local communities to tackle climate change, besides natural disasters particularly soil erosion and coastal flooding in the area. This campaign aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, regulate water cycles and increase green cover across the country. During the event, a total of 300 saplings were planted at the Sandspit.
The 'Rung Do Pakistan' campaign is a joint initiative of WWF-Pakistan and Careem with other partners aiming to plant a total of 1.4 million trees across the country by August 2019 through active participation of different stakeholders, local communities and passionate individuals. Careem has contributed in the campaign by raising funds through the Rung Do Pakistan car type in its app. Passionate citizens contributed very generously for the cause.
Speaking on the occasion, WWF-Pakistan Sindh and Balochistan regional head Dr Babar Khan said Pakistan is recognised as having the 7th largest mangrove forest in the world. They are one of the primary features of coastal ecosystems and are widely spread across the coast of Pakistan. The majority of mangrove forests are found in the Indus Delta, a region categorised as one of the most productive global 200 ecoregions of the world.
He also shared that mangroves are the first line of defence against cyclones, strong surges, tsunami and other natural calamities impacting the coastal areas of Pakistan. They are critically important because of their role in climate change mitigation and adaptation, community livelihoods, and food security. 'We consider mangroves jewels of the coastline as they enhance its aesthetic value and appeal to a diverse species of birds and fishes,' he added.
'The annual deforestation rate of Pakistan is 1.63 percent. We owe it to our country to give back what we've taken. Careem aspires to help the community achieve self-sustenance and growth and plantation takes us one step closer to our goal.
Careem cares about the environment and looks to partner with organizations across the country to help spread awareness and make whatever difference it can for its community' said Junaid Iqbal, Managing Director, Careem Pakistan. The mangrove ecosystem provides shelter and is a nursing ground for different fish species as well as other fauna of the area.