QUETTA: In an extraordinary display of dedication, staff of the Balochistan Wildlife Department are carrying water on their backs and using donkeys to reach remote mountain areas in Takatu National Park, battling severe drought to save the region’s endangered Markhor and other wildlife.
The rescue mission was launched under the directives of Provincial Minister Sardar Masood Khan Luni, Secretary Abdul Fattah Bhanger, and Chief Conservator Sharifuddin Baloch after the park’s natural springs and water reserves completely dried up.
With vehicle access impossible in the rugged terrain, field staff have resorted to traditional methods—transporting water on motorcycles, donkeys, and even on foot to ensure the survival of the precious wildlife. The Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal and a protected species, is among the animals facing severe thirst.
Department officials described the operation as a critical response to an emergency situation, showcasing their staff’s “exceptional commitment to wildlife conservation.” However, they have also issued an urgent appeal for additional resources, warning that the current strenuous efforts are not sustainable without more support.
The initiative highlights the growing impact of climate change on Balochistan’s fragile ecosystems and the desperate measures needed to protect endangered species from drought conditions that are becoming increasingly common in the region.
The land of Balochistan, which is rugged, and renowned for its mountains, ancient juniper forests, and diverse wildlife, is witnessing renewed efforts to preserve its natural heritage.
The provincial government has launched a series of initiatives aimed at protecting biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
In this regard, measures are being taken to curb illegal hunting, which has long posed a threat to endangered species in the region.
There is a strict enforcement mechanisms are being strengthened in collaboration with law enforcement agencies and local communities to safeguard wildlife.
Furthermore, alongside these protective measures, attention is also being directed toward the rehabilitation of injured and vulnerable animals.
