Wetlands are distinctive ecosystems that offer variety of environmental, economic, and social advantages, such as water filtration, flood control, carbon sequestration, and wildlife habitat.
Azad Pattan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir observed World Wetlands Day today with a focus on the preservation and restoration of wetlands in the area. The day is celebrated every year on February 2 to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands for both people and the environment.
This year’s theme, “It’s Time for Wetlands Restoration,” emphasizes how crucial it is to give wetland restoration top priority. While delivering the keynote address to commemorate World Wetlands Day in 2023, Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative, IUCN Pakistan,
Wetlands are distinctive ecosystems that offer a variety of environmental, economic, and social advantages, such as water filtration, flood control, carbon sequestration, and wildlife habitat.
Despite their significance, wetlands are subject to serious threats on a global scale, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. To commemorate the occasion and draw attention to the importance of wetlands in this vulnerable area, IUCN Pakistan organised an event at Azad Pattan, AJ&K.
An interactive session on wetlands conservation and restoration was part of the event, and it was followed by a conservation walk.
IUCN Pakistan’s Country Representative, Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, stated in a statement: “Wetlands are crucial to the health of our environment because they offer vital services and assistance to local communities and economies. ”
To conserve and restore these priceless ecosystems, we must act right away as they are currently facing numerous difficulties.” He continued, “World Wetlands Day gives us a chance to spread the word about the value of wetlands and to support conservation and restoration initiatives in the area.
In his keynote address, Mr. Asim Jamal, Project Manager for Karot BMP Implementation, emphasised the value of wetlands and the contributions of IUCN Pakistan, government agencies, and the local community to the preservation of biodiversity, wildlife, and fisheries in the Panjaar, Azad Pattan, and Beor Punjab areas, which are the focus areas for the 720 MW Karot Hydropower Project being developed and run by the Karot Power Company Limited.
Participants in the World Wetlands Day celebration in Azad Jammu and Kashmir included representatives from the government, professionals, scholars, and the general public.
The activities aimed to inspire action for the preservation and restoration of wetlands in the area as well as provide a forum for dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders. “Although threatened, wetlands represent our best hope for the future. Together, we can make sure that the wetlands’ abundant biodiversity and vital services are preserved and restored for future generations “Mr. Cheema concluded by saying.