The article discusses the environmental and health risks posed by the improper disposal of COVID-19 related waste such as face masks and gloves, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. Experts and environmentalists express concerns over the pollution and potential health hazards due to the waste, which is often discarded carelessly. The waste, made of synthetic fibers, breaks down into microplastics, threatening ecosystems and marine life. The European Union's disease control agency warns that the virus will persist long-term, exacerbating the issue. The WWF highlights the dangers to marine life and the importance of proper waste management, while local environmentalists like Rafiul Haq and Nazifa Butt from WWF Pakistan emphasize the risks to poor communities and the lack of political will to address the problem.

The population of Pakistan's Indus dolphins, once at risk of extinction, has been increasing due to conservation efforts by wildlife authorities, local communities, and organizations like WWF Pakistan. The Indus dolphin, found in a stretch of the Indus River, has seen its numbers grow from 918 in 2011 to 1,419 in 2019. Despite this growth, the species faces threats from water pollution, climate change, habitat reduction due to barrages, and fishing nets that they cannot break free from. The local community has been instrumental in conservation efforts, and WWF Pakistan has provided an ambulance for dolphin rescue. A recent incident involving the mishandling of a dolphin led to an arrest and potential severe penalties. WWF and the Sindh Wildlife Department are planning satellite tagging to monitor dolphins, and there is a call for effective planning to ensure their future conservation.

The article discusses the aftermath of the 2022 floods in Sindh, Pakistan, focusing on the plight of women and girls in the region. It highlights the lack of proper sanitation facilities, privacy, safety, and livelihood opportunities for the affected communities. The United Nations Development Programme's 2023 report is cited, revealing that a significant majority of girls lack proper latrine facilities and many women struggle with water access and menstrual hygiene. The World Bank estimates the floods caused over $30 billion in damage, with housing being the most affected sector. The Government of Sindh's response includes the Sindh People’s Housing Scheme for Flood Affected, which aims to provide house ownership to a substantial number of women. However, the article points out that not everyone can benefit from this scheme due to the overwhelming number of affected people. The National Commission on the Status of Women and the United Nations Development Programme have documented the disproportionate impact of climate stress on women, who often have minimal ownership of land and assets. The article also touches on the health risks posed by stagnant floodwater and the lack of healthcare facilities.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the proposed construction of a new city on the twin islands of Bundal and Dingi in Pakistan. Environmentalists and local fishermen are concerned about the potential destruction of marine life, biodiversity, and the livelihood of thousands of fishermen. The islands serve as a natural buffer against cyclones and tsunamis, and their development could increase the risk of such disasters. The article highlights the ecological importance of the mangroves surrounding the islands, which are nurseries for various marine species and a refuge for migratory birds. The cultural significance of the islands is also noted, with a shrine of a Muslim sufi saint and annual festivals. Past attempts to develop the islands were met with resistance, and the current government's efforts have also faced opposition from the local population and political parties.

The article discusses the severe impact of the recent floods in Pakistan, which have affected 33 million lives and displaced over six million people. It highlights the plight of rural women and girls in relief camps who are struggling with the lack of privacy and security, particularly due to the non-availability of toilets. This has led to increased risks of attacks and sexual assaults. The Sindh region is the most affected, with many still living in camps. Local NGOs like Sujag Sansar Organization, in collaboration with Water Aid Pakistan, are working to provide makeshift toilets, but the need is urgent and massive. The article also touches on the loss of livelihood for women and the rise in diseases and sexual violence in the camps. It calls for women to be prioritized in future climate policies and resilience initiatives.

The article discusses the transformation in Thar Desert, Pakistan, where women are breaking traditional gender roles by becoming dumper drivers in the coal mining industry. The Thar Foundation has been pivotal in creating job opportunities and fostering social change. The region, known for its Hindu majority and arid landscape, has seen a green transformation due to recent rains. The Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) has been instrumental in employing women as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, providing them with training, employment, and financial independence. Despite initial opposition, these women have become role models in their communities, challenging gender norms and contributing to the local economy. The article highlights individual stories of women like Meena Kumari and Nusrat, who have gained economic stability and improved their families' lives through their work.

The article discusses the environmental and agricultural degradation in Malir, a district of Karachi, Pakistan. Once a fertile land known for its quality produce, Malir is now facing severe issues due to illegal sand and gravel mining, construction on agricultural lands, and pollution. These activities have led to a decrease in groundwater levels, making it difficult for farmers to grow crops and earn a livelihood. The situation is contributing to Pakistan's larger problem of food insecurity, which has been exacerbated by economic challenges, extreme weather, and the Covid-19 pandemic. The article includes perspectives from local farmers and experts, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and government intervention. The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency is working on a climate change policy to restore the environment and improve the food chain and ecosystem in Malir.

The article discusses the journey to Keti Bandar and the environmental and social challenges faced by the coastal communities in the Indus Delta of Sindh, Pakistan. It highlights the decline of mangrove forests due to deforestation, climate change, and industrialization. Efforts by WWF-Pakistan, UNESCO, ADB, IUCN, and UNDP have contributed to the restoration of mangroves, with significant increases in forest cover. The article emphasizes the importance of mangroves for local livelihoods, coastal protection, and marine life. It also covers the initiatives to engage local women in mangrove plantation and protection, providing them with alternative livelihoods such as sewing and fish farming. The success stories of individuals like Hajira Bibi, Zaitoon Deblo, and Salim Deblo illustrate the positive impact of these conservation and development programs on the community's resilience against climate change and economic challenges.

The article explores the transformation of Lyari, a neighborhood in Karachi, Pakistan, from a place known for gang violence to a burgeoning hub of technological innovation and education. It highlights the role of Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari (BBSUL), established by the Sindh government, in fostering this change. The university's Computer Sciences Department has produced students who have created AI-based technologies and become entrepreneurs, significantly impacting the local community. The article features stories of students and graduates who have overcome the area's violent past to pursue education and create opportunities for themselves and others. It also discusses the remaining challenges in Lyari, such as the need for better education, health, and sanitation facilities, and the ongoing drug problem.

The article discusses the aftermath of the devastating floods in Pakistan, which have affected over 33 million people and destroyed millions of acres of farmland, leading to a food insecurity crisis and damaging healthcare infrastructure. The situation is particularly dire for pregnant women and infants, with many having to travel long distances for medical care. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations had already warned about food insecurity in the affected areas, and the United Nations Population Fund has assessed the urgent care needs of pregnant women. Healthcare providers emphasize the need for accurate data to prevent a disaster. The article also highlights the efforts of NGOs like Sujag Sansar to provide healthcare to flood victims and the challenges faced in collecting data on maternal mortality rates and dengue patients due to the floods. The health minister of Sindh acknowledges the difficulty in data collection. The article calls for strategies to minimize risks to women and prevent deaths as the country moves from rescue to rehabilitation.

The article discusses the severe impact of marine pollution and climate change on the livelihood of fishermen and women in the fisheries industry in the Arabian Sea, particularly in the Ibrahim Hyderi village of Karachi, Pakistan. It highlights the struggles of individuals like Naziraan Bibi and Hajiyaani, who have lost their jobs due to the decline in fish and shrimp populations. Experts like Aslam Jarwar, Director Fisheries Sindh, and Dr. Pirzada Jamal Siddiqui from the University of Karachi, attribute the decline to environmental changes and overfishing. The article also touches on the legislative changes brought by the Sindh Fisheries Amended Act and the efforts of organizations like the Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum and IUCN to provide relief and training to the affected communities.

The article narrates the journey to Manchar Lake in Pakistan's Sindh province, once a thriving freshwater lake now facing severe environmental degradation. The lake's ecosystem has been devastated by the inflow of industrial waste, leading to a drastic reduction in fish populations and the disappearance of migratory birds. The local fishing communities, particularly the Mullah or Mohana community, have been hit hard, with many forced to migrate in search of livelihoods. The article highlights the plight of these communities, who are struggling to survive as the lake's pollution has destroyed both their traditional fishing practices and the fertility of surrounding lands. The situation is exacerbated by the lack of health facilities and alternative employment opportunities. The article also touches on the historical and cultural significance of the lake and its floating villages, which are now on the brink of extinction.

The article discusses the environmental and economic impact of water scarcity in the River Indus on the local fishing community and the popularity of Palla fish in Sindh, Pakistan. Due to upstream dams and climate change, the water levels in the River Indus have drastically reduced, affecting the availability of Palla fish, which is a significant source of income for local fishermen and a popular dish in Sindhi cuisine. The scarcity of water has led to various hardships for the local community, including a lack of drinking water and difficulties in daily life. The article also touches on the ecological risks faced by the Indus Delta and the potential future consequences if the situation does not improve.

Rehri Goth, a fishing settlement in Karachi, Pakistan, is facing severe pollution issues, leading to health problems and economic hardship for its residents. Industrial waste from nearby areas and cattle waste from Landhi's Cattle Colony are major contributors to the pollution, which has resulted in a decline in fish catches and marine life. Studies have shown exceptionally high levels of chemical pollutants in the coastal waters. The local fishing community is struggling, and there is a dire need for waste treatment plants. The Sindh government has allocated funds for waste treatment plants and community development, but the problem persists. The World Bank has also announced funding for waste management in Karachi. Immediate action is required to mitigate the damage, but many fear it may be too late.

The article discusses the environmental and health risks posed by the improper disposal of COVID-19 related waste such as face masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment. Experts and environmentalists express concern over the pollution levels, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. The European Union's disease control agency warns that the virus will persist long-term, exacerbating waste issues. Environmentalist Rafiul Haq and Nazifa Butt from WWF Pakistan highlight the dangers of this waste to public health and the environment, including the risk of pathogens entering the food chain and the release of toxins from incineration. The article also mentions a study by Waste Free Oceans on the longevity of plastic waste in nature and the impact of COVID-19 waste on Pakistan's beaches and marine life.

The population of Pakistan's Indus dolphins, once at risk of extinction, has been on the rise due to conservation efforts by wildlife authorities, local communities, and organizations like WWF Pakistan. The Sindh Wildlife Department reported an increase from 918 in 2011 to 1,419 in 2019 in the Sukkur-Guddu area. Despite this growth, challenges remain, including habitat reduction due to barrages and industrial estates, water pollution, climate change, and fishing nets that dolphins cannot break free from. The local community has been instrumental in conservation, and WWF Pakistan has provided an ambulance for dolphin rescue. A man was recently arrested for mishandling a dolphin, highlighting legal measures to protect the species. WWF and the Sindh Wildlife Department are planning satellite tagging to monitor dolphins, and a Lahore-based wildlife expert, Dr. Uzma Khan, emphasizes the need for effective planning for future conservation.