STFP Published comic book on Indus River Dolphin

STFP has published a comic book “Bulhan” to create awareness about unique Indus River Dolphin and its habitat. Indus River dolphin (Platanista minor) which is locally known as Bulhan occurs only in the Indus River in Pakistan. It is also known as Indus blind dolphin as it is functionally blind due to its unique adaptation to living in turbid river environment over the long period of time. Historically these dolphins were found in large number right from the Indus estuary up into the foothills of the Himalayas but now the current population of Bulhan in Indus River from Jinnah Barrage to Kotri Barrage is just around 1400 which is not very healthy number for the survival of any wild animal species due to which it is listed as an “Endangered Species” by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).

STFP has launched a project with the support of Small Grants and Ambassador Fund Program of USAID at Taunsa Barrage which is working to create awareness about the protection of Bulhan among the local fisher communities, concerned stakeholders and general public to minimize the threats through the mass awareness campaign. Through community involvement and empowerment the project is also fostering community-based “stewardship” for the conservation of Bulhan in the area of Taunsa Barrage, providing alternate source of income to the fishermen through ecotourism.

This book has been written by Professor Z .B. Mirza, who is a well-known nature conservationist. If anyone is interested to get a copy of this book please send us an email at stfpak@gmail with your complete mailing address.

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