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Transcript of (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of IUCN ... · freshwater turtles, all of which can be...
Disclaimer: This ‘Research on the Illegal Trade in Freshwater Turtles in Sindh
and Balochistan’ was made possible with support from the American people
delivered through the United States Agency for International Development
(USAID). The contents are the responsibility of IUCN Pakistan and do not
necessarily reflect the opinion of USAID or the U.S. Government.
Published by
IUCN Pakistan
Copyright
© 2017 International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Citation is encouraged. Reproduction and/or translation of this publication
for educational or other non-commercial purposes is authorised without prior
written permission from IUCN Pakistan, provided the source is fully
acknowledged. Reproduction of this publication for resale or other commercial
purposes is prohibited without prior written permission from IUCN Pakistan.
Compiled by
Dr. Syed Ali Ghalib
Syed Ali Hasnain
Field Surveys undertaken by
Adnan Hamid Khan
Abdur Razzaq Khan
Coordination by
Saeed Akhtar Baloch
Sindh Wildlife Department
Edited by
Danish Rashdi, IUCN Pakistan
Naveed Ali Soomro, IUCN Pakistan
Ruxshin Dinshaw, IUCN Pakistan
Cover Photograph by
Zahoor Salmi
Designed by
Azhar Saeed, IUCN Pakistan
Printed by
VM Printer (Pvt.) Ltd.
Executive Summary 2
1 Introduction 3
1.1 Importance of Freshwater Turtles 3
1.2 Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan 4
1.3 Threats to Freshwater Turtles in Pakistan 4
1.4 Literature Review 4
1.5 Need for the Present Study 5
2 Objectives 7
2.1 Activities 7
3 Methodology 9
3.1 Indirect Observations 9
3.2 Direct Observations 9
3.3 Analysis of the Record of Consignments seized by the
Sindh Wildlife Department 10
4 Results and Discussion 11
4.1 Focus Group Discussions 11
4.2 Consultations with Stakeholders 11
4.3 Field Surveys in Select Localities 12
4.4 Ecological Study on the Black Spotted Pond Turtle 15
5 Conservation Efforts 18
5.1 National Efforts 18
5.2 International Obligations 26
6 Recommendations 28
7 Conclusion 31
8 Acknowledgments 32
9 References 33
Appendix 1: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles
confiscated at Karachi (2005-2007) 35
Appendix 2: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles
confiscated in Sukkur (2006-2008) 35
Annexure 1: Freshwater Turtle Conservation Action Plan 37
Table of Contents
2
Five species of freshwater turtles (FWTs) in Pakistan are globally threatened.
The present study reviews the efforts made to protect the species and control
their illegal trade. It also identifies the hotspots for the capture and export of
freshwater turtles Sindh and highlights the successful efforts of the Sindh
Wildlife Department to control this illegal activity in the Province through
detection and registration of cases of the illegal trade of the species. The
study emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of the status of the species
and recommends actions for their safeguard.
Field surveys in Balochistan were also undertaken in Hingol National Park
area, Hub Dam and selected localities in Jafarabad and Naseerabad Districts
(Khirthar Canal, Beron Khirthar Canal and Pat Feeder Canal areas). No
instances / cases of illegal trapping or export of freshwater turtles were
reported in Balochistan.
A Consultative Workshop to draft a Freshwater Turtles Conservation Action
Plan was held in November, 2017 at Karachi and a brief action plan for the
conservation of freshwater turtles was developed. This joint effort may serve
as a milestone for the conservation of freshwater turtles in Sindh and
Balochistan.
Executive Summary
Wetlands of Deh Akro Wildlife Sanctuary. Q Naveed Soomro
3
There are about 300 species of freshwater turtles worldwide and more or less
50% of them are threatened. Turtles have slow growth and late maturity with
relatively modest annual reproductive output. They are responsible for
cleaning the aquatic environment by feeding upon the dead organic material
and diseased fish. The freshwater turtle is a keystone species which also
controls the population of fish.
1.1 Importance of Freshwater Turtles
Freshwater turtles are found residing in the whole Indus River system. This
system comprises of many canals, irrigation ditches, ponds, agricultural
ponds, fishing farms and water reservoirs. All these sites provide favourable
habitats for the turtles.
Freshwater turtles play a major role in maintaining balance in the ecosystem
of any wetland. They act as scavengers by decaying dead organic matter.
They act as indicators of a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Some of them are
carrion eating species that feed on aquatic weeds and reduce eutrophication.
Economically, freshwater turtles are considered more valuable compared to
fisheries because of the presence of good quality flesh and fats which are in
high demand in international markets for different purposes.
1. INTRODUCTION
Hardella_thurjii
4
The pharmaceutical industry also utilizes turtle
plastron for preparing specific medicines. China
and Taiwan are considered the major markets for
plastron imports. Freshwater turtles have served
as an important food resource in many Asian
countries. However, several countries in the
region have made attempts for the conservation
and management of the resource. In Asian
countries, freshwater turtles are rarely exploited
for jewelry, tourist souvenirs, or leather; rather,
they are mostly utilized in medicine and as food.
1.2 Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan
Around 167 reptile species have been recorded in
Pakistan (Ghalib et al., 1976). As many as 105
species of reptiles have been recorded in Sindh
(Khan et al., 2012). Pakistan has eight species of
freshwater turtles, all of which can be found in
Sindh and Balochistan. Based on the absence or
presence of horny scutes or scales on their
carapace, freshwater turtles have been divided
into two categories, viz. Softshell Turtles and
Hardshell Turtles. Softshell turtle species include
the Indian Softshell Turtle, Peacock Softshell
Turtle, Indian Narrow-headed Softshell Turtle, and
Indian Flap Shell Turtle, while the Spotted Pond
Turtle, Indian Roofed Turtle, Brown Roofed Turtle
and Crowned River Turtle are Hardshell Turtle
Species (Table 1).
1.3 Threats to Freshwater Turtles in
Pakistan
Besides poaching and trade, the threats to
freshwater turtles include unsustainable
development, scarcity of water in rivers and
canals, water diversion and extraction projects
for irrigation purposes and water pollution.
People, particularly fishermen, are unaware of the
ecological role of turtles in the river ecosystem
and consider the turtles as being harmful to the
fishing economy.
Turtle hunting takes place everywhere in the
region and people are well aware of this
business. Wildlife trade, particularly in freshwater
turtles, has been taking place in a well organised
manner in Sindh Province (Shah, 1996).
1.4 Literature Review
In Pakistan, scientific studies have been
undertaken on the status and distribution of
freshwater turtles in Sindh, KPK and Punjab, with
the main objective being to determine the
distribution, status and abundance of freshwater
turtle species, particularly in the districts rich in
wetlands, which potentially provide habitats for
turtles.
Many researchers have worked on the
distribution and conservation of freshwater
turtles, particularly in different locations in Sindh.
The information about the distribution and
abundance of freshwater turtles in Sindh was first
compiled by the Zoological Survey of Pakistan
based on a survey on the distribution and status
of freshwater turtles in the River Indus adjacent to
Sukkur Barrage, Guddu Barrage, Jamal din Wali,
and pond areas adjacent to Kandhkot during
March and April 2003. A total of six species of
turtles i.e. Pangshura smithi, Pangshura tecta,
Hardella thurjii, Chitra indica, Nilssonia gangetica
and Lissemys punctata were recorded in the
Table 1: List of Freshwater Turtle Species Recorded in Pakistan
# Family Scientific Name Common Name
1 Geoclemys hamiltoni Spotted Pond Turtle
2 Pangshura smithii Brown Roofed Turtle
3 Pangshura tectum Indian Roofed Turtle
4 Hardella thurjii Crowned River Turtle
5 Nilssonia gangeticus Indian Soft Shell Turtle
6 Nilssonia hurum Peacock Soft Shell Turtle
7 Lissemys punctata Indian Flap Shell Turtle
8 Chitra indica Indian Narrow-headed
Soft shell Turtle
Geomydidae
Trionychidae
study area. Chitra indica and Pangshura smithii
were observed to be abundant in various parts of
the study area (Azam et al., 2005).
Later, Noureen (2009) reported eight species of
freshwater turtles in the Indus River system.
Arshad and Noureen (2010) conducted a survey
to identify the causes of mass mortality of
freshwater turtles downstream of the Sukkur
Barrage. Regarding illegal trading, Noureen et al.
(2012) investigated the consequences of the
exploitation and status of freshwater turtles in
Pakistan. Safi and Khan (2014) studied the status
and distribution of freshwater turtles in
Charsadda, KPK. Khan et al. (2015) described the
distribution and current status of fresh water
turtles in Sindh and KPK. Recently, Khan et al.,
2016 have reviewed the distribution, threats,
conservation and status of freshwater turtles
in Sindh.
Trade in freshwater turtles in Pakistan was first
brought to light through a joint study conducted
by WWF Pakistan and the Sindh Wildlife
Department for TRAFFIC International in 1996.
(Shah,1996). Baig (2006) reported the existence
of the turtle trade, particularly the trade in body
parts of Softshell turtles. The Pakistan Wetlands
Programme under WWF Pakistan and the
Ministry of Environment (now M/o Climate
Change) conducted several studies on freshwater
turtles and highlighted their illegal trade. The
findings of Noureen and Khan (2007, 2007a) gave
a preliminary status of freshwater turtles in
Punjab and Sindh. Noureen et al., (2008)
described the preliminary findings of the turtle
trade around the major barrages and headworks
of Punjab. Noureen (2009) gave an account of
freshwater turtles trade in Sindh, and later
Noureen et al. (2012) gave an account of the
illegal trade in freshwater turtles of Pakistan.
1.5 Need for the Present Study
It has been observed that Soft-shell turtles are
mostly targeted by local communities in Sindh
and Punjab because these turtles’ body parts are
in high demand in the international markets.
Freshwater turtle traders contact local
communities and offer them a significant amount
of money to start the business and to adopt it as
their main profession. As a result, the illegal trade
in freshwater turtle species and their body parts /
derivatives has become a lucrative business in
Pakistan and its seems to be well organized in
the country, ranging from harvesting / poaching
of species from their natural habitats to the illegal
trade in the local and foreign markets. In view of
the above situation, this study has been
undertaken with the following objectives.
5
Indian flapshell turtle. Q Naveed Soomro
Brown Roofed Turtle (Pangshura smithii). Q Zahoor Salmi
7
The specific objectives of the present study are:
l Understanding the livelihood dependency of local communities engaged
in the trade of freshwater turtles in Sindh and Balochistan.
l Recommending measures needed to improve the situation in favor of
freshwater turtles.
2.1 Activities
To achieve the objectives of the project, the following activities were
conducted:
l A literature review on freshwater turtles in Pakistan was undertaken and
secondary data was collected.
l Freshwater turtle hotspots in Sindh and Balochistan were identified and
surveys were conducted in the identified habitats. At least four surveys
comprising of 3 members have been conducted over a duration of 5-6
days.
l Consultations have been held with key informants from local
communities, and knowledgeable individuals from government and civil
society. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were held with local
communities to understand the livelihood dependencies on trade and to
gauge the level of awareness among the community when it came to
conserving freshwater turtles.
l The field data was analysed to prepare a draft study report and finalize
the same with the IUCN Project team.
l The study’s findings were presented at a workshop organized by IUCN.
2. Objectives
Hingol River. Q Naveed Soomro
9
The methodology includes both direct and indirect observation methods.
3.1 Indirect Observations
These included Focal Group Discussions (FGDs) and interviews with
stakeholders, including communities, to obtain information about the status,
local use of, and threats to turtles. The FGDs were preceded by a questionnaire.
3.1.1 Focal Group Discussions
Participatory approaches were utilized in rural areas in data gathering to
enable local people to assess the problems and find measures for addressing
them. It was found that the local people are well aware of the status of turtles
in their environment and can help in improving the situation.
Focal group discussions were conducted using the participatory methodology
to find out stress on freshwater turtle populations and identify their causes,
and also to discuss remedial measures according to their perception.
The participation of people from all tribes living in the area was ensured in the
discussion. In each group, about 10 — 15 persons participated in the
discussion and gave their input. FGDs with local communities were
conducted to understand the livelihood dependencies on trade and to
increase the level of awareness at the community level to conserve
freshwater turtles.
3.1.2 Interviews with stakeholders
Interviews were conducted with stakeholders, including local communities, in
turtle hotspot areas, which were identified in consultation with the Sindh
Wildlife Department. Key informants from local communities and
knowledgeable individuals from government and civil society were consulted.
3.2 Direct Observations
These included visits/surveys of potential sites in Karachi, Thatta, Badin,
Sujawal, Khairpur, Naushero Firoze, Sukkar, Ghotki and Sanghar Districts in
Sindh, and Hub Dam, Hingol National Park area and selected localities in
Jaffarabad and Naseerabad districts in Balochistan to record the existing
situation of the freshwater turtle trade. The sites were identified in
consultation with the Sindh Wildlife Department and the Balochistan Forest
3. Methodology
and Wildlife Department in light of the FGDs and
meetings with stakeholders.
At least fourteen field surveys comprising of 3
members for about 2 – 6 days have been
conducted. Analysis of the field data has been
made to prepare a report.
3.3 Analysis of the Record of
Consignments seized by the
Sindh Wildlife Department
The records provided by the Sindh Wildlife
Department relating to freshwater turtle
consignments seized by them from poachers and
illegal exporters have also been consulted to
ascertain the present situation of illegal export.
Nilssonia gangeticus. Q Abdur Razzaq Khan
11
4.1 Focus Group Discussions
The rural communities of Sindh are subject to many issues including shortage
of drinking water, lack of health & education facilities, lack of livelihood
opportunities and dependence on depleting natural resources. These issues
have drastically affected the livelihoods of rural communities and pushed
them towards poverty. The situation has been complicated by poor conditions
of financial, natural, physical and human capital which in many aspects are
interdependent and mutually reinforcing. In order to combat poverty,
communities adopt any means available to them, legal or illegal. Exploitation
of freshwater turtles by the community in order to sustain their livelihoods is a
major concern since the population of freshwater turtles has been declining
drastically, one reason being the unsustainable harvesting of turtle species.
The local groups were asked about the status and local use of turtles. They
were also asked about the techniques they use to capture turtles. It was
found that generally, the Jogi, Baagri, Rawara, Barha, Gurgula, and
Guruwanro communities are involved in the profession of turtle catching in
Sindh. The Mallah and Mirbahar are also involved to some extent. They are
completely dependent on capturing and selling turtles as they have no other
source of livelihood. They sell the captured turtles to middlemen for Rs. 40 —
50 per kg. They are not fully aware as to where these middlemen supply these
turtles. According to them, their sole dependence on turtle capture and trade
means that if they give up this profession, their family and children will starve.
When questioned about what they would do if the stock of turtles in the wild
were to disappear, they could give no satisfactory answer as they believed
that natural stocks are infinite.
In Balochistan, it was found that there is almost no record of turtle capture
and trade in Lasbella, Jaffarabad and Naseerabad Districts, where the survey
was conducted. Apparently, no illegal capture or export takes place in
Balochistan.
4.2 Consultations with Stakeholders
The general perception of the people interviewed about turtle trade is that it
has been introduced in Pakistan by the Chinese while working on construction,
canals and small dams projects. The Chinese initially encouraged local people
4. Results and Discussion
12
to sell these turtles as food items; later, this
activity was scaled up to a commercial level.
A total of 35 interviews were conducted during
this survey.
The findings of this exercise are as follows:
l Turtle hunting groups search for turtles not
only in rivers but also in small canals, nearby
water courses and agricultural fields. The
average size of a small turtle hunting group is
4-6 persons while in large groups, the
average number of individuals ranges from 15
to 30 persons.
l The number of turtles captured per day
depends on the size of the turtle hunting
group and on the availability of turtles at a
particular location. Out of 35 interviews
conducted during the survey, only 17
interviewees responded to the question of
how many turtles they can capture in a day.
The results showed that the minimum
average of turtle capture per day is 50, while
the maximum average is 112 depending on
the size of the turtle capturing group.
l There is no defined season for collecting
freshwater turtles and the people catch them
throughout the year. Some people have
expertise in collecting turtles, particularly
when there are low water levels in canals.
According to them, it is very easy to locate
turtles in low water when they are less active
in winter season. Other turtle hunting groups
are of the view that turtles are easily caught
in high water when they are more active
during summer.
l It has been noted during the field expedition
that some of the professional wildlife
poachers not only capture turtles on a
commercial scale but also other reptiles and
mammals that they encounter during hunting
such as snakes, monitor lizards, hedge hogs,
jackals, jungle cats, otters and crocodiles.
Some wildlife traders export different kinds of
wildlife for supply to international buyers.
They are supposed to use Karachi Port to
export their consignments but some have
also extended their circles to Quetta,
Balochistan Province, and use the Pakistan-
Afghanistan border to export wildlife through
illegal means.
In Sindh, the freshwater turtle trade is destined to
Karachi, from where turtles and their body parts
are exported to other countries such as Hong
Kong, China, South Korea and Vietnam (Noureen,
2009; Noureen et al., 2012).
Poaching mostly from Thatta District (Hadero
Lake, Haleji Lake, and Mahboob Shah Lake),
Sanghar district (Chotiari Wetland complex), and
Badin District (Phoosna Lake and Shaikh Keerio
Peer) has been reported. The main locations from
where export of freshwater turtles to East Asian
countries takes place are Karachi, Lahore and
KPK.
4.3 Field Surveys in Selected
Localities
Field surveys were undertaken in select localities
in Sindh and Balochistan from 6th May to 21st
May, 2017 and again in Balochistan in November
2017, to collect information about the
occurrence, capture and export of freshwater
turtle species there. Local communities, key
stakeholders and knowledgeable persons were
contacted to obtain the desired information.
Priority was given to the sites where the target
communities were found, covering the whole
region from Karachi to Thatta, Badin, Sanghar,
Shaheed Benazirabad, Khairpur, Sukkur, Ghotki
and Noshero Feroz. Surveys were conducted in
the priority areas where fishing and turtle
capturing activities were in progress and
instances of freshwater turtle capture and export
were reported.
Field surveys were conducted in 20 locations in
Balochistan and more than 12 locations in Sindh.
Reconnaissance level visual surveys were
conducted and information was gathered from
locals. The surveys consisted of either walking
along portions of river/pond/canal banks, or
driving on the banks. Habitat conversion for
agricultural purposes has occurred in some
places. Suitable basking sites for freshwater
turtles are present in many areas and therefore
turtles could be visible if surveyed in the correct
season.
Most of the potential areas of freshwater turtles
have been covered in these surveys. Only a few
far flung and less known localities still remain to
be covered in future surveys.
A brief description of the areas which were visited
is given in the table below:
13
Table 2: Locations with findings of the surveys undertaken
No evidence of presence of fresh water turtles in the area was recorded.
Personal communication with local people revealed that a long time ago
freshwater turtles were found in springs near Hinglaj, but these later
disappeared.
No evidence of occurrence of freshwater turtles was found. Personal
communication with Mr. Muhammad Sharif, Conservator (Wildlife), Balochistan
and Mr. Badal, Game Watcher revealed that freshwater turtles have not been
recorded at least up to Ormara and onwards.
Freshwater turtles were seen but exact numbers and species could not be
identified.
l Surveys were conducted at twenty sites located along three canals of
Balochistan viz. the Beron Kirthar Canal, Kirthar Canal and Pat Feeder
Canal.
l Two species of freshwater turtles were sighted at four sites only along the
Beron Kirthar canal in Jaffarabad District viz. Narrow-headed Soft Shell
Turtle and Indian Flapshell Turtle. However, no evidence of turtles being
captured from these areas was recorded.
l Three sites along the Pat Feeder Canal were visited but no turtles were
sighted there.
l A survey was undertaken along the area running between the Kirthar Canal
and Beron Kithar Canal from the Saifullah Canal to the Umrani Area. The
water level at the Kirthar Canal was high so there were no sightings of
freshwater turtles due to deep water.
l It was found that fishing takes place all along the canals but fishermen do
not capture freshwater turtles; rather, if captured in fishing nets, they
release them.
l There is no evidence of illegal hunting, poaching and trade of freshwater
turtles from these areas.
As reported by Mr. Imdad Hussain, Deputy Ranger, Forest & Wildlife Department
at Usta Muhammad, this is the only canal system in Balochistan were FWTs are
found.
The entire area is water logged where rice cultivation takes place.
Locations Findings
(A) Balochistan
Hingol River
25 26 45.4 N
65 32 30.7 E
Jhalo village
25 28 17 6 N
65 31 35 5 E
Hub Dam
25 14 35 5 N
67 06 46 1 E
Safiullah Canal, Jaffarabad
274934.4N, 675507.5E
Machchi Pul, Usta Muhammad
280921.8N, 670243.3E
Khirthar Canal Regulator, Faizabad Area
281322.4N, 675909.5E
Khirthar Canal Bridge, Faizabad
281323.1N, 675908.5E
Beron Khirthar Canal, Faizabad
281325.7N, 675909.0E
Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and
Khirthar Canal
281310.6N, 675608.7E
Area between Beron Khirthar Canal
and Khirthar Canal
281302.1N, 675432.8E
Area between Beron Khirthar Canal
and Khirthar Canal
281219.1N, 675321.1E
Area between Beron Khirthar Canal
and Khirthar Canal
281221.1N, 675319.1E
14
The locals said that freshwater turtles are available in the area but no hunting
and poaching takes place.
The lake was almost dry but during flooding the lake gets filled with water. The
Sindh Wildlife Department released 350 freshwater turtles in this lake in 2016,
which were confiscated from DHA, Karachi. As stated by a local, Mr. Sultan, due
to the poor quality of water and unfavourable conditions, most of these turtles
died. During the present visit, the water level was only 2 – 3 feet deep and only
7 – 8 freshwater turtles were seen,
The important wetlands of the complex viz. Chambh 1 & 2, Gunjo, Karanda,
Wichhaywari, Kharraro, Sambari and Teach Dandh were visited. About 300
freshwater turtles, particularly the Indian Narrow headed Softshell Turtle (Chitra
indica), Indian Flap-shell Turtle (Lissemys punctata), Black Spotted Turtle
(Geoclemys hamiltonii), and Crowned River Turtle (Hardella thurjii) were seen.
(A) Balochistan
Area between Beron Khirthar Canal
and Khirthar Canal,
281359.1N, 675300.1E
FWTs sightings
Umrani Area, Beron Khirthar Canal
281546.9N, 675403.3E
FWTs sightings
Magsi Shah Area, 60 Deep
282148.6N, 674454.8E
Beron Khirkhar Canal
FWTs sightings
282128.3N, 675705.9E
Between Khirthar Canal and Beron
Khirthar Canal
282130.1N, 675740.1E
Beron Khirthar Canal
FWTs sightings
282526.3N, 675921.1E
Umrai Area / Shaikh Roopa Deep
282529.1N, 675922.2E
Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad
282715.4N, 680207.7E
Manjho Shori Pul, Naseerabad
FWTs sightings
282714.8N, 680210.2E
Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad
FWTs sightings
282754.4N, 680315.5E
Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad
FWTs sightings
282925.4N, 680545.5E
(B) Sindh
Safar Goth
25 13 13 1 N
67 08 28 5 E
Kalar Kahar Lake, Sukkar/Pano Aqil
27 44 19 7 N
69 00 55 3 E
Deh Akro Wetland Complex,
Shaheed Benazirabad
26 00 23 8 N
68 42 32 0 E
15
It is an important area for trade of freshwater turtles and Mr. Saddam Mallah is
the main person who is involved in this business, as informed by Mr. Rahaib
Shar, a local staff member of the Sindh Wildlife Department. As many as 360-
600 Freshwater Turtles were confiscated from Mund Jamro and adjoining areas
in September 2016, and were later released by the SWD in the different
wetlands of Nara.
It is an important area for freshwater turtles due to the presence of fish ponds
and surrounding marshes. Illegal export used to take place from here to
Shaheed Benazeerabad, Sanghar and Karachi, but now the practice has mostly
stopped, as stated by locals. The Chotiari area supports more than 4000 to
5000 freshwater turtles as indicated by Mr. M. Ayub Mullah of Pakistan Fisher
Folk, Sanghar. It was informed that the large scale capture of freshwater turtles
takes place in Wadh area near Chotiari dam.
Some important wetlands for freshwater turtles in the district Badin are,
Shukoor Dhand, Dahee, Mandhar, Phoosna, Charwo, Khanjo, Jari, Nira, Soomar
and Somarodhands. Turtles occur but no hunting and poaching takes place.
Some local people still capture freshwater turtles mostly from the wetlands of
Tando Bago area.
Poaching of freshwater turtles takes place at canals and marshes near
Ghlumullah, Mirpur Sakro, Haleji and Keenjhar Lakes, Barrage Mori and 103
Mori. Bheels and Kohlis are involved in this business. Persons come and collect
the stock from them for Rs.40 – 50 per kg. Freshwater turtles are also used as
food by the Bheels. They are either sold as a whole or only the flesh is sold. The
shell is also used for different purposes.
Freshwater turtles are found in the main River Indus, and are caught from there
and supplied to exporters.
Freshwater turtles are found in small numbers in marshy land near Bajara and
Jhangara. No hunting and poaching takes place there.
(B) Sindh
Mund Jamrao Sanghar / Khairpur
Chotiari Wetland Complex, Sanghar
26 05 47 5 N
69 09 23 9 E
Badin District
Thatta District
Sujawal District
Dadu District
4.4 Ecological Study on the Black
Spotted Pond Turtle – a popular
species for export
The Black Spotted Pond Turtle is one of the most
preferred species for capture for illegal export
from Pakistan. Recently, scientific research has
been initiated under University of Sindh,
Jamshoro.
A biological study along with the most notable
confiscation details of export consignments for
this species has been undertaken, with the
following findings.
The Black Spotted Pond Turtle is a highly prized
species of freshwater turtle. Geoclemys
hamiltonii, commonly known as Black Pond Turtle
or Spotted Pond Turtle, is one of the oldest turtle
species on earth: fossil remains of this species
been found in the Siwailk Hills in Northern India.
This species is categorized as vulnerable
according to the IUCN Red list. It is protected as
it is included in the Second Schedule of the
Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1972. It is
listed in Appendix I of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
4.4.1 Morphology
G.hamiltoni is mainly black with small yellowish
spots and much elevated carapace. The shell is
convex, strongly arched with sloping sides with
three interrupted strongly arched keels or series
of nodes. The head of the species is extremely
large and the snout is small. The head is black
with yellow spots; the neck is gray with white
spots. The eyes are also black and the iris has
yellow spots.
Maximum carapace length reported in
Bangladesh is 405 mm (CL) in females and
292.2mm (CL) in males. Females are reported to
attain a slightly larger size than males.
4.4.2 Distribution
This species is found in Pakistan (Indus River
Drainage) and Ganges River (Drainage System)
North India (Assam), Nepal and Bengal.
In Sindh, this species is reported mainly in Thatta,
Badin, Chotiari Reservoir, Sanghar, Nara Canal,
Khairpur and Larkana.
4.4.3 Habitat
The animal is aquatic and mostly found in
stagnant shallow, clear water, especially in oxbow
lakes.
4.4.4 Feeding Habits
The turtle is carnivorous and in the wild its main
diet perhaps consists of snakes. Molluscovory is
also suspected in the animal due to its
moderately large head. Parts of the Snail Percula
and algae were observed in its stomach.
Molluscovory of the species is confirmed at
different localities, from India (Rajhasthan). It has
been reported to feed on Lemnaea spp. and
Gyrulus spp. and Odento Larvae.
4.4.5 Reproduction
The species is oviparous and is reported to lay
two clutches in a single reproductive season. The
clutch size of the species varies. The highest
clutch size reported is 36 eggs, but it can also be
as few as 12 to 13 eggs. The temperature
required for the hatching of eggs is 28 – 30 oC
and eggs hatch in 50 to 60 days.
4.4.6 Illegal Trade of Black Pond Turtle
Smuggling of Black Pond Turtles from Pakistan to
other countries, especially to the South East
Asian states and China, has become a common
Q Naveed Soomro
practice over the last few years. A number of
cases have been reported over the last decade.
4.4.7 Confiscation of consignments of Black
Pond Turtles by the Sindh Wildlife
Department
l About 200 Black Pond Turtles, smuggled
from Pakistan to Taxkorgan in China’s
Xinjiang in August 2014, were seized by the
Chinese authorities, and were handed over to
the Sindh Wildlife Department in a ceremony
at the Pak-China border. The officials of the
Sindh Wildlife Department brought the turtles
back and released them into their natural
habitat in Sukkur.
l On September 20th 2014, 200 Black Pond
Turtles were confiscated by the Sindh Wildlife
Department at Karachi Airport while they
were being smuggled alive in the luggage
onboard to Bangkok.
l A shipment of 230 Pakistani Black Pond
Turtles was seized at Karachi International
Airport on 20th September 2014. On 2nd
October 2014, these were released in Halejii
Lake by the Sindh Wildlife Department.
l A consignment of 62 Black Pond Turtles was
confiscated by the Karachi Police reportedly
from the Shanti Nagar area, on April 7th
2016. As a result of a delay in rescuing the
turtles, which were tightly packed in cartons,
49 of them died.
l A total of 170 female Black Pond Turtles were
confiscated by the Sindh Wildlife Department
on the Super Highway on 28th April 2016.
l A large number of Black Pond Turtles (780)
were confiscated from Karachi during a raid
on a house in Defence Housing Authority on
10th September 2016. A team from the
Wildlife Department transported the
consignment from Karachi to Sukkur. The
turtles were released at two different
locations including Kalar Lake on Sukkur-
Ghotki road and in Nara Canal. (Dr. Anila Naz
Soomro, in litt.)
17
Nara Canal Seepage Wetland. Q Naveed Soomro
18
In Pakistan, many efforts have been made by different governmental and
nongovernmental organizations for the conservation of turtles.
5.1 National Efforts
WWF Pakistan has explored the illegal trade in body parts of freshwater turtle
species in Pakistan and shared the information with the concerned government
authorities to update the conservation status of turtle species in Pakistan.
WWF Pakistan, through its ongoing projects and programmes, supports the
conservation of freshwater turtles by creating awareness on the ecological
importance of freshwater turtles; promoting sustainable use of natural
resources; and reducing bycatch of turtles and introducing sustainable fishing
practices. WWF Pakistan also facilitates the provincial wildlife departments in
combating the illegal trade in freshwater turtles by helping them release
confiscated turtles back into their natural habitat.
The Sindh Wildlife Department has been extensively undertaking efforts to
combat illegal hunting, poaching and trade in freshwater turtles. It implements
its wildlife act vigorously for the safeguard and protection of freshwater
turtles. Consignments of turtle meat and body parts bound for East Asian
countries have been confiscated by the department at the seaport and at
Karachi and Sukkur airports.
5.1.1 Provincial Wildlife Protection Acts
In Pakistan, wildlife protection and conservation is a provincial subject. Prior
to 2007, freshwater turtles were not listed in the category of protected animals
in any Provincial Wildlife Act.
l The KPK Wildlife Department, after realizing the sensitivity of the issue,
undertook the initiative to protect freshwater turtles in the province. On
August 22nd, 2007 the NWFP Wildlife Protection Act 1975 was amended
and all the freshwater turtles of the province were listed in Schedule III, a
category of protected animals in the wildlife act.
l The Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department revised the Punjab Wildlife
Protection Act 1974, on November 30th, 2007, and made an amendment
to include the Order Chelonia (Turtles and Tortoises) in Schedule III.
l In March 2014, the Government of Balochistan also declared all eight
freshwater turtles and the Afghan Tortoise, (Testudo horsfieldi) as Protected
i.e. these shall not be hunted, killed, trapped, captured or traded.
5. Conservation Efforts
l In September 2014, the Government of Sindh declared all eight species of freshwater turtles totally
“Protected” in Sindh. (Table 3)
A: Land Tortoise
S.No. English Name Scientific Name Conservation Status
IUCN Red List CITIES
1. Central Asian Tortoise Testudo horsfieldii Vulnerable Appendix II
2. Indian Star Tortoise Geochelone elegans Low Risk Appendix II
B: Freshwater Turtles
S.No. English Name Scientific Name Conservation Status
IUCN Red List CITIES
1. Indian Narrow- Headed Chitra indica Endangered Appendix II
Soft Shell Turtle
2. Indian Soft Shell Turtle Nilssonia gangeticus Vulnerable Appendix I
3. Indian Peacock Nilssonia hurum Vulnerable Appendix I
Soft Shell Turtle
4. Indian Flap Shelled Turtle Lissemys punctata Low Risk Appendix II
5. Black Spotted Turtle Geoclemys hamiltonii Vulnerable Appendix I
6. Brown Roofed Turtle Pangshura smithii Near Threatened Appendix II
7. Indian Roofed Turtle Pangshura tecta Low Risk Appendix I
8. Crowned River Turtle Hardella thurjii Vulnerable Appendix II
Table 3: List of Species of Freshwater Turtles and Land Tortoises Protected in Sindh and the
Rules for Protection, Conservation and Compensation of freshwater turtles and Tortoises
Hingol River. Q Naveed Soomro
20
The rules to ensure protection and conservation of freshwater turtles and tortoises were notified in
September 2014, with the following provisions.
Acts Prohibited:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
i. The poaching, catching, trapping, netting of Turtles or/and Tortoises and
using them as whole, parts, products or derivatives thereof is hereby
declared as prohibited.
ii. The trading, transportation, petting, caging and export of Turtles and
Tortoise as live or dead, as a whole, parts, products and derivatives
thereof is strictly prohibited.
Live Turtles and Tortoises found in unlawful possession shall be liable to
confiscation under the Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance, 1972.
The confiscated Wild Turtles and Tortoises, their parts, products or derivatives
thereof shall in no case be returned to offender
The provision of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1871 shall inter alia be applicable for
causing cruelty to Turtles and Tortoises.
The confiscated live Turtles and Tortoises shall immediately be released by the
Sindh Wildlife Department and their detention for purposes of enquiry shall in
no case exceed 15 days from their confiscation.
Turtles confiscated as a group shall not be considered as one offence, but
each head of Turtles and Tortoises shall be treated as a separate offence as
the same have been captured, trapped, poached as an individual.
The Turtles being scavengers and crucial members of Fresh Water
Ecosystems are rendering vital eco-system services of cleaning and purifying
the water bodies by eating all types of floral and faunal dead waste pollutants,
which are highly recognized as being beneficial to humanity and other Wing
entities and are equal to Rs. 400/- per day only for their role as water purifier.
The compensation for prohibiting the Turtles & Tortoises from rendering their
eco-system services and causing them shock by withdrawing them from
habitat shall be recovered as Rs 12,000/- per head.
The value of a Turtle & Tortoise, confiscated as dead and the one that dies
during pendency of enquiry is fixed as Rs. 20,000/- per head and shall be
recovered from the offender in addition to fine and compensation, while
compounding the offence under provisions of Ordinance.
The parts, products and the derivatives of Turtles and Tortoise recovered and
confiscated shall be determined in terms of "heads" of Turtles exploited and
used and the value shall be charged as Rs. 20,000/- per head.
The cost incurred for holding of Turtles and Tortoises outside habitat and its
feeding during pendency of enquiry, its transportation and repatriation shall be
recovered from the offender on actual basis while compounding the offence or
Rs. 1000/- shall be recovered in lump-sum for each head of animal.
Act prohibited
Confiscation
Cruelty to Animals
Act, 1871.
Release in nature.
One head one offence.
One head one offence.
Ecosystems services
rendered by Turtles and
its compensation
Value of Dead Turtle as a
whole or part thereof.
Repatriation cost.
5.1.2 Recording Freshwater Turtle Hotspots in Sindh and Balochistan
Based on the present study which includes discussions, meetings and surveys undertaken in Lasbella
district, Jaffarabad district and Naseerabad district of Balochistan and important sites in Sindh
Province, the following hotspots/locations with regard to poaching and trade of freshwater turtles have
been identified.
Karachi is considered as the hub of wild animal trade. In order to investigate the pet trade in local turtle
species, all the potential animal trade markets of the city were also visited but no turtles were in stock
there.
Important areas with reference to the occurrence and export activities of freshwater turtles were
identified as detailed below.
21
Table 4: Potential Sites of Freshwater Turtles in Sindh
S.No. Sites
1 Bajara, Dadu
262120.8N, 674549.8E , 26234.80N, 675152.6E
2 Baghar Mori
24 44 31.1 N, 67 59 16.7 E
3 Barrage Mori
242526.3N, 681525.6 E
4 Chotiari, Sanghar
26 12 31.3 N, 68 59 57.1 E
5 Dadu Canal, Sukkur
27.696695N, 68.840916 E
6 DehAkro Wetlands
260023.8 N , 684232.0 E
7 Deh Bagri, Thatta
25 19 22.5 N ,68 13 85.5 E
8 Deh Jangisar, Thatta
24 11 34.5 N ,67 37 54.7 E
9 Guddu Barrage, Kashmor
29 23 59.6 N ,68 09 20.6 E
10 Heleji Lake, Thatta
24 47 12.3 N ,69 45 56.9 E
11 Indus, Dadu
262348.0 N, 675152.6 E
12 Jhangarha, Dadu
262006.5N, 674311.9E
13 Jhangarha Canal, Dadu
262038.9 N, 674334.4 E
14 Keenjhar Lake, Thatta
25 02 38.6 N, 68 09 20.6 E
15 Khirthar Canal, Sukkar
27.697310 N, 68.844321 E
22
S.No. Sites
16 Kalar Lake, Panoaqil
251313.1 N, 670828.5 E
17 Kotri Barrage Area, Kotri
252202.6 N, 661895.7 E
18 Makli, Thatta
19 Manchhar Lake, Dadu
262534.9 N, 673046.5 E, 262414.0 N, 673501.8 E
20 Mirwah Canal, Sukkar
27.67162 N, 68.850473 E
21 MundJamrao, Sanghar
22 Nara Canal, Sukkar / Khairpur
265339.2 N ,685738.8 E , 27.672360 N, 68.851668 E
23 Phoosna Lake, Badin
24 Rohri Canal, Sukkar
27.671827 N, 68.849285 E
25 Rice Canal, Larkana
27.697068 N, 68.842691 E
26 103 Mori, Thatta
243446.3 N, 675330.3 E
Table 5: Potential Sites of Freshwater Turtles in Balochistan
S.No. Sites
1 Saifullah Canal, Jaffarabad
274934.4N, 675507.5E
2 Machchi Pul, Usta Muhammad
280921.8N, 670243.3E
3 Khirthar Canal Regulator, Faizabad Area
281322.4N, 675909.5E
4 Khirthar Canal Bridge, Faizabad
281323.1N, 675908.5E
5 Beron Khirthar Canal, Faizabad
281325.7N, 675909.0E
6 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal
281310.6N, 675608.7E
7 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal
281302.1N, 675432.8E
8 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal
281219.1N, 675321.1E
9 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal
281221.1N, 675319.1E
10 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal,
281359.1N, 675300.1E FWTs sightings
S.No. Sites
11 Umrani Area, Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings
281546.9N, 675403.3E
12 Magsi Shah Area, 60 Deep
282148.6N, 674454.8E
13 Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings
282128.3N, 675705.9E
14 Between Khirthar Canal and Beron Khirthar Canal
282130.1N, 675740.1E
15 Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings
282526.3N, 675921.1E
16 Umrai Area / Shaikh Roopa Deep
282529.1N, 675922.2E
17 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad
282715.4N, 680207.7E
18 Manjho Shori Pul, Naseerabad FWTs sightings
282714.8N, 680210.2E
19 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings
282754.4N, 680315.5E
20 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings
282925.4N, 680545.5E
It may be appreciated that a maximum number of potential sites for freshwater turtles has been
recorded in spite of limited resources and time for detailed and extensive field work. The exercise
needs to be extended further to cover remoter areas in Sindh and Balochistan.
Baqar Lake, Sanghar. Q Naveed Soomro
24
Sample Locations
25
5.1.3 Details of cases against freshwater turtles captured and illegal export consignments
confiscated by the Sindh wildlife Department
l The Sindh Wildlife Department has been playing the most important role in controlling illegal wildlife
trade, particularly the freshwater turtles trade in the province. Consignments of 3600 kg and 700 kg
of turtle meat and their body parts (Indian Narrow – headed Softshell Turtle and Indian Softshell
Turtle) bound for the East Asian countries were confiscated by the Department at sea and airports
in Karachi in 2005 and 2007. (Appendix 1)
l The Sindh Wildlife Department, Sukkur division alone recorded 22 cases of turtle capture for
subsistence and commercial use during 2006 – 2008. (Appendix 2) The main sites of these catches
were: Indus River (near Guddu, Kashmor, Sukkur and Rohri), Ghotki, Feeder (near Ubaro), Sano
Lake (Ghotki), Pano Aqil, Shahi Wah and Murad Wah (Kashmor). Kirthar canal (Sukkur) and
Kandkot. (Noureen, 2009)
l During 2009 – 2014, 23 cases of possession of freshwater turtles, including 14 cases of
confiscation of flesh of freshwater turtles, were registered and Rs. 489,000/= recovered as
compensation. The locations included Khairpur, Sukkur, Guddu, Kashmor, QambarDokri, Larkana,
and Thul (Jacobadad).
l During 2014 – 2017, 9 cases of confiscation of FWTs were registered by the SWD, Karachi office
and tried in court. The consignments / property included 1853 live Black Spotted Pond Turtles
which were confiscated along with 5 kg, turtle meat and 4342 dried parts of freshwater Softshell
Turtles. The turtles were released back in various selected localities of the Indus River System
including Nara Canal (Sukkur), Halejii Lake, Keenjhar Lake, Kallar Lake (Sukkur), Jamrao Canal
(Shaheed Benazeerabad) and K.B. Feeder, Jamshoro.
Table 6. Turtle Cases Detected / Registered on Fresh Water Turtle Trade (2014 - 2017)
S. No
1.
2.
3.
4.
Case No /
C.P No
August 2014
46/245/2014
49/245/2015
20/494/2016
Accused
Sajid Faiz
Cheema
Ali Ahmed
Soomro
Chaoli Kang
& others
Total 9
accused
booked (03
Chinese
Nationals and
06 Pakistani
Nationals)
Details of property
229 live BlackSpotted Pond Turtlesconfiscated
218 live BlackSpotted Pond Turtlesconfiscated
4342 dried freshwater Soft shellturtle partsconfiscated.
580 live and 20 deadBlack Spotted PondTurtlesTotal 600confiscated.
Place of detection
Smuggled from
Pakistan
Jinnah International
Airport, Karachi
Karachi
International
Container Terminal,
West Wharf,
Karachi
DHA, Karachi
Remarks
Confiscated by Chinese
Custom Authorities.
Repatriated from China and
released back in Indus River
System from Guddu to
Sukkur Barrages.
Compounded Rs. 50000/-
by court. Turtles released
back in Haleji Lake and
Keenjher Lake.
Compounded Rs. 30000/- by
court. (Property is still lying
with Pakistan Customs
Department.)
Compounded Rs. 25000/
each by court. Turtles
released back in Kaller Lake,
Sukkur.
26
S. No
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Case No /
C.P No
21/494/2016
07/46/2016
01/02/2016
40/2016
08/2017
Accused
Imran Ali &
others
Unknown
Ghulam
Rasool &
Others
Total 04
accused
booked.
Limo Jogi
Details of property
180 live BlackSpotted PondTurtles confiscated.
159 live and 11dead Black SpottedPond Turtles.
Total 170confiscated.
307 live BlackSpotted PondTurtles confiscated.
5 kg Fresh waterturtle meatconfiscated
180 live fresh waterturtles confiscated
Place of detect
DHA Karachi
Super Highway,
Karachi.
Deh Akro-II Wildlife
Sanctuary
Thatta
LooniKot, Jamshoro
Remarks
Compounded Rs. 25000/
each by court. Turtles
released back in Nara Canal,
Sukkur
Released back in Haleji
Lake.
Turtles released back in
Jamrao Canal, Shaheed
Benazirabad.
Compounded Rs. 2000.
Compounded Rs. 100000.
180 live turtles were released
back in K.B Feeder,
Jamshoro
5.2 International Obligations
Pakistan has an obligation to implement the
recommendations of international
conventions/agreements to which it is signatory;
the two which are related to trade are TRAFFIC
International and CITES.
5.2.1 TRAFFIC International
This is a Non-Governmental Organisation,
established in 1976, based in Cambridge, U.K.
with regional offices worldwide. It is a wildlife
trade monitoring network and has a role as a
global specialist, leading and supporting efforts
to identify conservation challenges and support
solutions linked to trade in wild animals and
plants. TRAFFIC works closely with IUCN and
WWF, making critical contributions to their
conservation goals. TRAFFIC’s 2020 goal is to
help reduce the pressure of illegal and
unsustainable wildlife trade on biodiversity and
enhance the benefits to wildlife conservation and
human well being that derive from trade at
sustainable levels.
5.2.2 CITES
The Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES) is an international agreement between
governments which came into force on 1 July
1975. Pakistan is a signatory of the Treaty. The
aim of CITES is to ensure that international trade
in specimens of wild animals and plants does not
threaten the survival of species in the wild and it
accords varying degrees of protection to more
than 35,000 species of animals and plants.
Appendices I and II of the CITES restricted the
international trade, export and import of wildlife
species including freshwater turtles, their parts
and their products as well.
l Appendix I: Lists species that are threatened
with extinction and are or may be affected by
trade. Commercial trade in wild-caught
specimens of these species is illegal
(permitted only in exceptional licensed
circumstances).
(Source: Sindh Wildlife Department, Karachi)
l Appendix II: Lists species that are not
necessarily threatened with extinction, but
may become so unless trade in specimens of
such species is subject to strict regulation in
order to avoid utilization incompatible with
the survival of the species in the wild.
Chotiari. Q Naveed Soomro
28
Human activities have been endangering fresh water turtle species and
therefore, we need concerted conservation action. The various species of
turtles distributed in Sindh province are being collected unsustainably from
the wild for both local use and to trade. They are being exploited
indiscriminately by certain ethnic groups or communities mainly for trade and
to support their livelihoods. The most critical threat is the illegal trade which is
in practice in many parts of Asia. Further, turtle habitats are being extremely
degraded, destroyed, and fragmented, and this also results in a decline in
their population. The long term survival of animals depends to a large extent
on the local communities who live alongside them.
It is time to intervene for survival of the freshwater turtle species and develop
successful strategies along the following lines with input from stakeholders.
a. Development of Conservation Action Plan
A comprehensive Freshwater Turtle Conservation Action Plan needs to be
formulated with input from all stakeholders. The Action Plan would identify the
issues/threats and their causes and suggest solutions and entrust roles and
responsibilities.
b. Enhancing awareness of the local communities to fresh
water turtle conservation and sustainable use
The local communities are unaware of the importance of turtles in an
ecosystem. Therefore, an awareness raising programme for communities
needs to be initiated. This includes conservation education programmes at
schools, through religious teachings and installing information billboards at
potential sites.
c. Providing technical assistance and training to local
communities
Capacity building of local communities needs to be undertaken for fresh water
turtle conservation and management. Community Based Organizations
(CBOs) should be established in collaboration with provincial wildlife
departments and the existing local organizations of the area.
d. Building bridges between government and the
communities to foster joint management of turtles
CBOs need to liaise with the provincial wildlife departments in turtle
conservation efforts.
6. Recommendations
e. Regular field surveys and
ecological research
There is a need to initiate scientific research and
regular monitoring of the population, occurrence,
status and hotspots of turtles in Sindh and
Balochistan through effective use of different
management tools.
f. Environmental education and
awareness raising programmes
These programmes are required for raising
awareness among the general public, wildlife
traders and relevant government departments
and policy makers which will be helpful in
combating the turtle trade. There is also a need
for developing awareness raising materials like
field guides, field survey manuals and posters for
this purpose.
g. Initiation of captive breeding
programmes
Freshwater turtle captive breeding programmes
should be initiated and encouraged to cater for
the livelihood of people dependent on turtles.
h. Exploration of alternate livelihood
opportunities for communities
In order to minimize dependency of communities
on turtles for subsistence and livelihood, alternate
sources of income generation through ecotourism
development may be explored.
i. Strict implementation of turtle
protection legislation and rules
The legislation for conservation of turtles should
be properly implemented.
Export of parts of turtles should be checked and
local markets should be monitored to minimize
the use of turtles in trade.
j. Designation of protected areas
for freshwater turtles species
For the protection of endangered species of
freshwater turtles, suitable areas should be
designated as protected.
Wetlands along Guddu Barrage. Q Naveed Soomro
Consultations with the Game Watcher and local communities, Hingol National Park. Q Abdur Razzaq Khan
31
The River Indus, its basin and its tributaries, including canals, lakes,
waterways, streams, swamps, marshes and ponds, all provide feeding and
breeding grounds for freshwater turtles.
Most of the soft shell turtles in Sindh are struggling for their existence.
Environmental and climate changes and natural disasters are also major
threats to turtle survival. Pollution, habitat degradation, contamination of
water with industrial, agricultural, or domestic waste, pesticides sprays,
fertilizers, global warming, and pathogens, all serve as threats to the
existence of freshwater turtles. Sindh as a whole, and particularly the areas of
Karachi, Sanghar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Thatta and Badin are hotspots of the
turtle trade. The local communities residing near wetlands depend on fishing
for their survival. In most of the areas in interior Sindh local tribal communities
like the Mohana or the Kail communities are involved in the trade of turtles
along with fishing. Poverty is one of the main reasons for their involvement in
the turtle trade.
The situation is worsened by the influence of middle men who exploit the
poor and buy turtles for a meager price. The turtle catchers depend on
subsistence hunting and hence do not agree to leave this profession at any
cost. These people argue that they do not have any other alternate sources of
income for their families. There is a need to start family welfare programmes
for the turtle catchers by providing them with alternate income generating
opportunities. At its level, the Sindh Wildlife Department has been making
every effort to curb the illegal capture and export of freshwater turtles in
Sindh, as is evident from the new laws and regulations to curb the illegal
capture and export of freshwater turtles and the confiscation cases registered
from 2006 to date. As far as Balochistan is concerned, occurrence of
freshwater turtles has been recorded in three canals of Jaffarabad &
Naseerabad Districts viz. Khirthar, Beron Khirthar and Pat Feeder Canals, but
there is no evidence of illegal trapping and export of freshwater turtles from
there due to less opportunities of collecting the species.
The findings of this study were presented in a workshop for stakeholders held
on 7th November 2017, and the participants were requested to draft a
freshwater turtles Conservation Action Plan for Sindh and Balochistan, which
was finalised and is appended herewith (Annexure 1).
7. Conclusion
32
Sincere thanks are due to Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country
Representative, IUCN-Pakistan, for his overall supervision of the project and
for providing us an opportunity of undertaking successful research on an
important threatened group of reptiles. We are also grateful to Mr. Danish
Rashdi, Project Manager, Mr. Syed Ghulam Qadir Shah, National Coordinator,
MMF Programme, Mr. Naveed Ali Soomro, and Ms Amber Ajani,
Environmental Education Experts and Ms. Saveeta Khiani and Mr. Hairuddin
Baloch, Field Coordinators for their immense support and fruitful suggestions.
The help and assistance from the officers and field staff of the Sindh Wildlife
Department in the field studies is also thankfully acknowledged.
We also gratefully acknowledge the guidance in the field work from
Mr. Samandar Khan Khosa, D.C.F., Jaffarbad, Mr. Punhal Khan Rind, D.C.F.,
Naseerabad, Mr. Raja Asif Liaquat, D.C.W., Hingol National Park, and
Mr. Imdad Hussain, Deputy Ranger, Balochistan Forest Department. We are
also very indebted to the participants of the Consultative Workshop on
Freshwater Turtles held on 7th November, 2017 at Karachi for their valuable
comments and recommendations for the formulation of a Conservation Action
Plan for Freshwater Turtles in Sindh and Balochistan.
8. Acknowledgments
33
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report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands
Program. Pp10.
2. Azam, M. M, Fakri,M. S. and Saifullah.(2005). Some observation o the
distribution an abundance of freshwater turtles in the River Indus. Rec.
Zool. Surv. Pakistan, 16: 46 – 51
3. Baig, K.J. (2006). Environmental Baseline Survey and Monitoring of Taunsa
Barrage Emergency Rehabilitation and Modernisation Project: A report
submitted to Zoological Science Department, Pakistan Museum of
National History. Pp. 22.
4. Khan, M. Z., Kanwal, Roohi., Ghalib, S.A., Siddiqui,S, Siddiqui,T.F., Farooq,
R. Y, Yasmeen, G., Abbas, D. and .Zehra, A.,2012 . Current Status and
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N., Zehra, A., Begum, A., Jabeen, T., Yasmeen G. and Latif, T. 2012a.
effects of Environmental Pollution on Aquatic Vertebrate and
Inventories of Haleji and Keenjhar Lakes: Remsar Sites. Canadian
Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 6(1): 1759- 1783.
6. Khan, M.Z., Safi, A., Fatima, F., Ghalib, S.A., Hashmi, M.U.A., Khan, I.S.,
Siddiqui, S., Zehra, A. and Hussain, B. 2015. An Evaluation of
Distribution, Status and Abundance of Freshwater Turtles in Selected
areas of Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provinces of Pakistan.
Canadian Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 9(1):3201-3219.
7. Khan, M. Z., Kanwal, R., Ghalib, S.A., Fatima, F., Zehra, A., Siddiqui,S.
Yasmeen, G., Safi, A., Hashmi, M.U.A., Hussain, B., Iqbal, M.A.,
Manzoor, U. and Ullah, U. 2016. A review of distribution, threats,
conservation and status of freshwater turtles in Sindh. Canadian Journal
of Pure and Applied Sciences. 10 (3): 3997 – 4009
8. Noureen, U. and Khan, A.(2007). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan: A
Preliminary assessment of their status in Dara Ismail Khan, North West
Frontier Province. A research report submitted to the Ministry of
Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Programme. P 23
9. References
34
9. Noureen, U. and Khan, A. (2007a). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan: A
Preliminary assessment of their status in Punjab and Sindh. A research
report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands
Programme. P 23
10. Noureen, U. Braulik, G. T. Arshad, M. and Khan, N.H.(2008). Illegal Trade
in Freshwater Turtles Parts: Preliminary findings of turtles trade in
major barrages and head-works of Punjab. A research report submitted
to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Programme. P 28.
11. Noureen, U. (2009). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan. Illegal Trade in Sindh:
Preliminary Findings of trade in Freshwater Turtle Parts. A Survey
Report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetland
Programme. Pp. 36
12. Noureen, U., Khan, A. and Arshad, M. 2012. Exploring illegal trade in
freshwater turtles of Pakistan.Rec. Zool. Surv.Pakistan. 21: 19 – 24.
13. Safi, A. and Khan, MZ. 2014. Distribution and current population status of
freshwater turtles of district of Charsadda of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,
Pakistan. Journal of Zoology Studies. 1(4):31-38.
14. Shah, N. (1996). Wildlife Trade in Sindh. Report published by WWF-P for
TRAFFIC International. Pp. 57.
35
Appendix 1: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated in
Karachi (2005-2007)
Appendix 2: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated in
Sukkur (2006-2008)
S.
No
1.
2.
Consignment
type
Frozen body
parts of turtles
Dried body
parts of turtles
Quantity
3,600 Kg
700Kg
Species identified
Indian narrow-headed soft shellturtle (Chitra indica)
Indian soft shell turtle(Nilssonia gangetica),
Indian narrow headedsoftshell turtle(Chitra indica)
Date
June,
29th
2005
July
27th,
2007
Consignment
bound for
Vietnam
Beijing-China
Port Used
Karachi Sea
Port
Karachi Air
Port
Consignment
confiscated by
Karachi
Customs
Authority
Sindh Wildlife
Department
Source: Noureen, 2009
S. No
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Date of
Chalan
21/09/2006
06/10/2006
06/10/2006
12/10/2006
17/10/2006
22/10/2006
16/02/2007
01/05/2007
05/06/2007
10/01/2007
02/07/2007
02/07/2007
19/09/2007
14/03/2008
Place of
offence
Indus River
Indus River
Indus River
Indus River
Indus River
Indus River
Ghoti Feeder
Indus River
Indus River
Indus River
Samno lake
Indus River
(Guddu)
–
City
Guddu
Rohri
Guddu
Kashmore
Sukkar
Rohri
Ubaro
Guddu
Kashmore
Kashmore
Ghotki
Guddu
Puno Aqil
Kashmore
Nature of offence
Illegal catching of 4
freshwater turtles
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal trapping of 12
turtles
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal trapping of 4
turtles
Compensation
Recovered (Pak. Rupees)
10,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
8,000
8,000
6,000
23, 000
5,000
2,000
11,000
5,000
13,000
7,000
36
S. No
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
Date of
Chalan
14/04/2008
14/04/2008
14/04/2008
22/04/2008
05/05/2008
11/07/2008
29/05/2008
25/06/2008
Place of
offence
Shahi Wah
Kirthar Canal
–
–
Begarji Rice
Canal
Indus River
(Guddu Barrage)
Saifullah Canal
Murad Wah
–
City
Sukkur
Kandhkot
Kandhkot
–
Guddu
–
Kashmore
Puno Aqil
Nature of offence
Illegal trapping of 4
turtles
Illegal trapping of 6
turtles
Illegal trapping of 10
turtles
Illegal catching of
freshwater turtle
Illegal trapping of 8
turtles
6 kg turtle meat
Illegal trapping of 10
turtles
325 kg turtle meat
Compensation
Recovered (Pak. Rupees)
5,000
5,000
10,000
3,000
8,000
30,000
5,000
30,000
Source: Noureen, 2009
37
Annexure 1
Fresh Water Turtle Conservation Action Plan
IUCN Pakistan organised a consultative
workshop on 7th November, 2017 to discuss the
findings of the study conducted on illegal trade in
freshwater turtles in Sindh and Balochistan.
Following the presentation of the study’s findings,
the participants of the workshop were requested
to prepare a brief Action Plan on three topics viz.
Conservation; Research and Surveys; and
Education, Awareness and Capacity Building. The
following is the Action Plan suggested by the
participants of the workshop.
Fresh Water Turtles Conservation Action Plan
Identified Issues
Formulation of a
National Action Plan for
FWTs Conservation
Community Based
Conservation of FWTs
Strengthening of Sindh
and Balochistan Wildlife
Departments
Suggested Actions
A consultative workshop to be organised, to
be attended by representatives of focal
communities as well as representatives of
relevant govt. depts. working in the area.
The participatory approach is to be used in
formulation of the National Action Plan.
Community Based Organisations (CBOs) to
be established in focal areas and their
awareness and capacity built in FWT
conservation. In order to initiate community
based conservation, training sessions need
to be carried out with the members of
CBOs particularly in FWT identification,
monitoring techniques, data gathering,
nest translocation etc. These groups may
share their activities among other
participating or neighbouring communities.
They will also ensure the protection of FWTs
in their areas.
Since they are the custodians of wildlife,
including FWTs, in their respective
provinces, they have the prime
responsibility for conservation and
management of these species. For this
purpose, the departments may be
strengthened by providing a sufficient
number of staff. The committed and trained
staff may be posted in FWTs’ prime
habitats. The staff should be trained in turtle
conservation techniques and should be in
adequate numbers. They may also be
provided incentives or rewards annually
based on their performances related to
protection of species and enforcement of
rules and regulations.
Responsibility
IUCN, Federal Ministry
of Climate Change
Wildlife Departments,
NGOs, Local
communities
Provincial
Governments
Timeline
6 months
1 – 2 years
1 – 5 years
(A) CONSERVATION
38
Identified Issues
Proper surveys and
identification of FWT
hotspot areas
Comprehensive
Monitoring Plan
Implementation of laws
for protection of FWTs
and their illegal export
Establishment of
Captive Breeding
Centers of FWTs
Poverty alleviation of
communities
Designation of FWT
Protected Area
Suggested Actions
The surveys are to be conducted to determine:
l Status of wild turtle population in
different areas
l Evaluate the impact of human activities
on wild turtle populations
l Identify the sensitive areas in respect
to turtle capturing or poaching and other
threats
Thus identify the hotspots of FWTs in the
province and produce a scientific basis for
effective management and promotion of
conservation of FWTs.
Assessing changes in population and
habitats over time, in response to applied
conservation actions would require
monitoring to detect specific trends from
estimates of population size, relative
abundance, level of threats and habitat
changes, if any.
The legislation for conservation of turtles
and export should be properly implemented
and strict vigilance in this regard is to be
maintained.
Captive breeding is often perceived as
being the safest form to minimize pressure
on wild populations and this can be utilized
commercially as well. FWTs captive
breeding centers should be established in
select areas in collaboration with the local
CBOs who will manage it in consultation
and collaboration with the Wildlife
Departments. This may support the
livelihood needs of people who are
dependent on turtles as a source of
income generation.
The communities living near FWT habitats
are mostly poor and they exploit FWTs for
their livelihood. In order to minimize their
dependency on turtles for subsistence and
livelihood, alternate sources of income
generation (e.g. ecotourism) need to be
explored.
Following the IUCN definition of protected
area, suitable areas in the provinces should
be designated for the protection of
endangered species of FWTs. The
community may also be involved in their
management.
Responsibility
NGOs, Universities,
Wildlife Departments
of Sindh and
Balochistan, Federal
Ministry of Climate
Change (Zoological
Survey Department)
NGOs, Universities,
Wildlife Departments
of Sindh and
Balochistan, Federal
Ministry of Climate
Change (Zoological
Survey Department)
Provincial Wildlife
Departments and
other relevant
departments like
levies, police,
customs etc.
Provincial Wildlife
Departments, NGOs,
CBOs
NGOs
Provincial Wildlife
Departments
Timeline
1 – 2 years
3 – 5 years
Immediate
3 – 5 years
3 – 5 years
3 – 5 years
(A) CONSERVATION
39
Identified Issues
Coordination between
institutions/departments
Field surveys and
ecological research on
FWTs in different areas
of Pakistan
Socio-Economic Survey
Establishment of turtle
hatcheries
Establishment of
Conservation Park
GIS based research
Suggested Actions
An effective mechanism of coordination
between institutions and related
departments to be developed for
conservation of FWTs
Conduct field surveys and initiate ecological
research on FWTs in different ecological
zones of Pakistan to determine occurrence,
habitat and distribution, population, present
status, hotspots and current threats to
FWTs.
Socio-economic status of local
communities in different FWT distribution
sites and its impact on turtle population to
be investigated. Alternate livelihood
opportunities for the communities who
depend on FWTs for subsistence to be
explored
Feasibility study for the establishment of
FWT hatcheries in suitable areas to be
conducted for turtle farming and to evaluate
the trading and marketing of FWTs.
Assessment of sites for hatcheries and
farming centres and identification of nesting
sites to be made.
Special area to be established as a
Conservation Park set aside with protected
status for conservation of nature and
natural resources including FWTs. It will
remain a continuing focus of Wildlife
Departments and local communities. It will
help protect and balance our natural
resources while promoting outdoor
recreational opportunities. It will also
provide research facilities related to fauna
including FWTs.
GIS and remote sensing based tools utilised
for habitat mapping and identifying the
hotspots for FWTs. It will also generate
species distribution and richness map,
and potential for sustainable harvest.
Responsibility
Provincial Wildlife
Departments and
NGOs
Federal Ministry of
Climate Change
(Zoological Survey
Department),
Academia, NGOs
NGOs, Relevant
Government
Departments,
Academia
Wildlife Departments,
Academia, NGOs ,
Local communities
Wildlife Departments
IUCN, WWF – P,
SUPARCO,
Geography
Department of Karachi
University
Timeline
1 – 2 years
1 – 3 years
1 – 3 years
2 – 3 years
>5 years
3 – 5 years
(A) CONSERVATION
(B) RESEARCH AND SURVEY
40
Identified Issues
Pollution & Habitat
Degradation
Formation of
Community Based
Organisations (CBOs)
Conservation Education
and Awareness
Programmes
Preparation of
Education and
Awareness Material
Wildlife Laws in Local
Languages
Suggested Actions
Sewage, pesticides and effluents are
drained into water bodies. Therefore,
lobbying for use of environmental friendly
organic organisms needs to be done at the
local community level.
The communities living near FWT areas to
be mobilised through formal and informal
meetings to raise local people’s
conservation awareness. They will be
organised to support in planning,
implementing and execution of conservation
and management efforts of Provincial
Wildlife Departments in their area. The
capacity of CBOs will be built in this regard.
Conduct conservation education and
awareness programmes for local people,
general public, public representatives like
councilors, village religious leaders and
teachers through lectures, discussions, and
development and dissemination of field
guides, posters, stickers, brochures, and
leaflets. Social electronic and print media
can also be used.
Field guides, posters, stickers, brochures,
leaflets
At present the wildlife laws are available in
English. In order to increase the
understanding of the majority of people
including local people, they need to be
translated and made available in Urdu and
other local languages.
Responsibility
Local CBOs will
contact the
Administrator of Civic
agency (Municipality)
and also lobby with
other organizations to
initiate a campaign to
discourage harmful
practices of polluting
the FWTs habitat.
Local CBOs/NGOS
will contact media to
launch a campaign so
that environment
friendly organic
organisms are used.
Provincial Wildlife
Department, NGOs,
Local communities,
Local organisations
CBOS, NGOs, Wildlife
Departments, Print
and electronic media
Wildlife Departments
and NGOs
Provincial Wildlife
Department
Timeline
<5 years
6 – 12
months
1- 5 years
Short term
Short term
(B) RESEARCH AND SURVEY
(C) EDUCATION, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING
41
Identified Issues
Capacity Building of
Wildlife staff and
government officials
Specialized courses at
University level about
wildlife
Suggested Actions
Build the capacity of wildlife staff in
identification, handling and captive care of
turtles. The officials of government
departments mainly Custom Authorities
should be trained in recognizing turtle
species and parts of turtles to stop illegal
hunting, poaching and export.
The Universities should include specialized
courses at different levels about wildlife.
Responsibility
Provincial Wildlife
Department
Universities
Timeline
Short term
(C) EDUCATION, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING
33
