A Geographic Information System (GIS)-based survey has confirmed the presence of 135 Indus River dolphins in the Dera Ismail Khan stretch of the Indus River, marking a significant milestone in ongoing conservation efforts.
The survey was conducted by the Wildlife Division Dera Ismail Khan under the supervision of Divisional Forest Officer Khan Malook Khan and Sub-Divisional Wildlife Officer Malik Saqib.
It was carried out under the project titled “Conservation and Management of Indus River Dolphin in D.I. Khan.”
Survey Details
- Survey Period: February 18–24, 2026
- Coverage Area: From Chashma Barrage to the Ramak area within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa limits
- Methodology: Modern GIS-based mapping and monitoring techniques
In addition to counting the population, the survey team identified:
- Key habitats
- Family groupings
- Movement corridors
This comprehensive approach helped assess the dolphins’ population distribution and living conditions in detail.
Positive Conservation Impact
The findings indicate a noticeable increase in the dolphin population in this segment of the river, underscoring both the ecological importance of the area and the effectiveness of ongoing conservation measures.
Divisional Forest Officer Khan Malook Khan stated that the updated data would serve as a scientific foundation for future monitoring, improved habitat management, and long-term conservation planning to protect this rare and endangered species.
Stay Connected with ProPakistani
Get the latest news and stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
