Residents of Sindh coastal areas seeks attention by Sher Muhammad Khan

Residents of Sindh coastal areas seeks attention 

Sher Muhammad Khan

The coastal area of Sindh province in Pakistan is located along the Arabian Sea and includes major cities like Karachi,Thatta, Sujawal and Badin. It is known for its beaches, mangrove forests, and rich history, including the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. The coastal region is also an important center for fishing and trade.

The livelihood of residents in the coastal areas of Sindh province primarily depends on fishing and agriculture. They also engage in small-scale businesses such as petty trade and tourism. The proximity to the Arabian Sea provides ample opportunities for fishing and trading of seafood products, while the fertile land supports agricultural activities such as rice, sugarcane, and banana cultivation. However, the residents of these areas face several challenges such as frequent natural disasters, environmental degradation, and overfishing, which affect their livelihoods.

Climate change:

Climate change in Sindh, Pakistan is causing increased temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events (such as floods and droughts), and rising sea levels that are affecting the local agriculture, economy, and people's lives. The region is also facing challenges such as water scarcity, soil degradation, and decreased crop productivity. To address these challenges, the government and local communities are implementing adaptation measures such as water conservation, improved irrigation systems, and promoting drought-resistant crops.

Environmental degradation: Increased population and development activities have led to environmental degradation in the coastal areas of Sindh, including destruction of mangroves, overfishing, and pollution.

Natural disasters: The coastal areas are frequently hit by natural disasters such as cyclones and floods, leading to loss of lives, infrastructure and property.

Lack of infrastructure and basic amenities: The coastal communities often lack access to basic amenities like clean water, electricity, and healthcare, making it difficult for them to lead a healthy life.

Livelihoods: The coastal communities are dependent on fishing and related activities for their livelihood, but overfishing and degradation of marine resources have impacted their ability to earn a living.

Landlessness: Many coastal communities are landless and face the threat of displacement, as the government and private developers acquire land for development projects.

Climate change: The coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, increased frequency of natural disasters, and loss of coastal habitats.

Poor governance and lack of community involvement: There is often a lack of effective governance and community involvement in decision-making processes related to development activities in the coastal areas, leading to exploitation and marginalization of local communities.

Some major problems faced by residents of coastal areas of Sindh province include:

Climate change and sea level rise, causing coastal erosion and flooding.

Overfishing and destruction of mangroves, leading to loss of biodiversity and livelihoods.

Water pollution from industrial and agricultural waste, affecting health and fishing.

Lack of proper infrastructure, such as roads, housing, and healthcare facilities.

Limited access to education and employment opportunities.

Poor governance and lack of effective disaster management plans.

 

These are some of the main issues faced by the coastal areas of Sindh, which need to be addressed for sustainable development of the region.

Sher Muhammad Khan is development professional and researcher