The Sindh Wildlife Department has warned Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s (KMC) land department over alleged unauthorized construction on turtle nesting grounds along Hawkesbay beach.
As reported by Dawn News, the wildlife department penned down a letter to KMC stating an FIR will be lodged if the KMC does not clarify the legal basis for allotting land and approving construction along the beach.
According to the wildlife department, the construction activities are endangering vital turtle nesting sites on Hawkesbay beach, impacting various protected marine species.
The letter stressed that recent developments along the shore have caused a marked increase in the number of female turtles unable to lay eggs, as they retreat to the sea due to habitat encroachment.
The Sindh Wildlife Protection Act, 2020, and related rules allow the department to act against unauthorized activities that harm wildlife.
The department is requiring KMC to provide a complete list of allotments on the site, with supporting documentation. Without a lawful explanation, the department intends to pursue legal action under wildlife protection laws.
Meanwhile, KMC officials acknowledged receiving the letter and confirmed they are preparing a response.
This exchange follows an earlier demand from KMC for rent on land used by the wildlife department for turtle nurseries.
Rab Nawaz, Senior Director of Conservation Biodiversity at WWF-Pakistan, highlighted that roughly 60 percent of nesting habitats along Hawkesbay and Sandspit have been lost to hut construction over the years.
He urged for stronger environmental protections to ensure these critical habitats are preserved for future generations.
