Preserving Life in the Sands: Pakistan’s Unique Flora Conservation Station Launched in Thar

This initiative serves as a sanctuary for the declining unique flora found in the region, previously identified and reported in the Ecological Baseline Survey of Tharparkar, conducted by IUCN under the project “Partnership for Biodiversity Conservation in Thar”. The project is being implemented in partnership with Thar Foundation, the CSR arm of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) and other Block II entities.

The Thar Desert, is a living ecosystem that supports biodiversity and also has the highest human population of any desert in the world. There is a wide variety of flora and fauna that thrive in the Thar desert despite its inhospitable climate. These habitats are full of herbs, shrubs, and trees, which provide essential ecosystem services for human wellbeing. IUCN documented over 149 plant species in the region, including many endemic and rare species as well as two globally threatened species, Indian Bdellium Tree and Desert Teak, in its 2020-2022 survey.

However, biodiversity in Thar is under increasing threat; anthropogenic pressures such as deforestation, overgrazing, and habitat fragmentation have led to population declines in several ecologically important species. The decline of these plants will affect the population of other species associated with these plants and result in the imbalance of the natural ecosystem. Continued decline will critically degrade rangeland health, ultimately affecting livestock populations and local livelihoods.

What began in 2020 as a shared vision for biodiversity conservation in Tharparkar, Sindh, between both the partners, now, after four years of dedicated conservation efforts reflects a significant success story. The launch of the conservation-station was honoured by the presence of Mr Amir Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer, SECMC, who has served as the backbone of the project “Partnership for Biodiversity Conservation in Thar”. He said, “Tharparkar is not just a coal reserve, it is a landscape of life and resilience. This conservation station marks a significant step towards preserving the region’s natural heritage. We are proud to partner with IUCN in protecting the unique flora of Thar and reaffirm our long-term commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.”

Mr Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative, IUCN Pakistan, in his statement said, “The Thar flora includes some of the most unique and threatened plant species in the world, including those listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN is not only contributing to local ecological resilience but also to global biodiversity targets”.

Ms Sabeen Shah, General Manager Corporate Affairs, SECMC, remarked: “The conservation station reflects commitment to responsible development in Sindh. It is a proud moment to see Thar emerge not just as an energy hub but also as a beacon of environmental stewardship.” 

Also speaking at the launch, Mr Naveed Ali Soomro, Manager Sindh Programme, IUCN Pakistan, highlighted, “The Flora Conservation Station is a result of rigorous scientific research and sustained collaboration. It exemplifies IUCN’s commitment to nature-based solutions and inclusive partnerships. Additionally, Mr Farhan Ansari, General Manager CSR, Public Affairs & Communications, SECMC, added that, “This initiative further strengthens Thar Foundation’s role in promoting sustainable development and community engagement in the region.”

The IUCN-SECMC partnership continues to build on four years of conservation efforts, which have included a detailed ecological baseline survey of Tharparker’s flora and fauna, vulture conservation initiatives, community awareness outreach, and environmental education. With the support of the implementation partner and on-ground management of conservation station by Baanhn Beli, both IUCN & SECMC progress towards the new phase of the biodiversity project and are now committed to taking actionable measures to protect the region’s biodiversity.

For more information, please contact:

Mr Hammad Saeed
Manager, Communications and Knowledge Management
IUCN Pakistan, Islamabad Country Office
Cell. +92 307 7773801
E-mail: [email protected]