ISLAMABAD: Global scientists convened to discuss the preservation of international river deltas during a science meeting under the UN Convention for Conserving River Deltas (UNCCRD), led by Dr. Asim Zia, Professor of Public Policy, Community Development & Applied Economics at the University of Vermont, USA.
Dr. Altaf Siyal, a distinguished Professor at Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, represented the Indus Delta during the event. He shed light on the pressing concerns affecting this vital ecological region in South Asia. Dr. Siyal’s presentation provided insights into the multifaceted challenges contributing to the degradation of the Indus Delta.
Among the key issues highlighted were reduced river flows, diminished sediment supply, seawater intrusion, sea level rise, the shrinking active Indus Delta, land subsidence, coastal erosion, wave action, storm surges, industrial waste pollution, water scarcity, soil salinity, environmental degradation, and the depletion of freshwater resources. These challenges collectively result in an annual economic loss of approximately $2 billion due to the degradation of the Indus Delta.
Indus Delta’s Urgent Challenges Highlighted
Dr. Siyal made a compelling case for the intensified degradation of the Indus Delta, attributing it to the diversion of Indus River flows through hydraulic structures. He called for a reevaluation of these practices and advocated for an integrated approach to revive the Indus Delta. This approach emphasizes leveraging indigenous knowledge and skills and underscores the importance of sustainable development and conservation strategies that engage local communities while respecting the delicate ecosystem.
Other scholars from various global deltas also participated in the meeting, including Dr. Kevin Xu, Director of the Coastal Studies Institute at Louisiana State University, Dr. Tan Sinh Bach, Dr. Godi Godar, Dr. Ho Hua Loc, and Dr. Diana Rice. They provided scientific assessments of deltas worldwide. Dr. Emma presented a comprehensive synthesis of the discussions, highlighting the next steps and actions required.
The presentations and discussions emphasized the urgent need to address environmental challenges facing global deltas. Collaboration among governments, researchers, environmental organizations, and communities was deemed essential to ensure the preservation and revitalization of these critical ecosystems for future generations.
