KARACHI: City Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Friday inaugurated the Mangrove Biodiversity Park at Korangi Creek — a project that marks the establishment of the country’s first floating park dedicated to mangroves. Developed in collaboration with the Sindh Forest Department, the park aims to promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the mayor termed the project a “significant step” towards the preservation of mangrove forests and raising public awareness on environmental sustainability. He praised the involvement of private stakeholders, particularly from the real estate sector, in environmental initiatives, describing it as a positive sign for future generations.

“I brought my son here today so he can learn the importance of mangroves and environmental protection from a young age,” said the mayor, urging civil society and the business community to extend their support in ensuring the park’s long-term success.

Mayor Wahab announced that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) would soon establish another mangrove park near the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) building. Applauding the Sindh Forest Department’s achievement of setting a Guinness World Record for planting the highest number of mangrove trees, he called upon other authorities, including Port Qasim, Malir Development Authority, and KPT, to replicate such initiatives within their jurisdictions.

“Whenever we try to take steps for Karachi’s betterment, obstacles are deliberately created. But we will not back down from our mission,” the mayor said and invited civil society, media, and the corporate sector to share ideas and collaborate for a greener, more modern Karachi.

Referring to Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim — one of the city’s largest public parks — the mayor lamented its underutilisation. “It spans 130 acres but receives barely 130 visitors a day. Why do citizens prefer private clubs over public parks?” he questioned, stressing the need to enhance recreational facilities in public spaces to attract families and youth.

He stressed the importance of collective responsibility, stating, “We must go beyond criticism and focus on practical steps to improve our city. KMC stands ready to lead the way in environmental protection and urban development.”

Reference:-
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2569347/karachi-welcomes-countrys-first-floating-mangrove-biodiversity-park-1

https://www.dawn.com/news/1945083

https://propakistani.pk/2025/09/27/pakistans-first-mangrove-biodiversity-park-opens-in-karachi/

Karachi: Recognising the importance of mangroves as a vital coastal ecosystem that protects shorelines, supports biodiversity and plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change, the Sindh Forest Department has taken a landmark environmental initiative by establishing the Mangrove Biodiversity Park in partnership with TPL REIT Management Company.

The park is located in the heart of Korangi Creek, Karachi and is aimed at preserving and restoring the invaluable habitats, fostering public engagement with nature and enhancing coastal resilience. The Mangrove Biodiversity Park is described as a pioneering initiative targeted at setting a new standard for environmental conservation and ecosystem restoration. As part of the ongoing commitment, an independent advisory board has been formed comprising leading experts from diverse fields to help guide the future development and progress of the project.

The board includes Sindh Forest Department Chief Conservator Riaz Waghan, University of Karachi Professor of Zoology (Wildlife) Dr Zaheer Khan, Canvas Gallery Founder/Curator Sameera Raja, Karachi Port Trust ex-chairman Tariq Huda, State Life Insurance Corporation Chairman Sulaiman Mehdi and PM’s Climate Change Committee member Shah Murad Aliani. The newly formed advisory board for the Mangrove Biodiversity Park will play a pivotal role in providing expert advice on the park’s operations, environmental policies and strategic direction.

It will be responsible for ensuring that the park’s activities are in line with both national and international sustainability standards. It will also help shape efforts to enhance the park’s infrastructure, boost community engagement and raise awareness about the importance of mangrove conservation.

For Reference:
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40343273

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2520742/sindh-forms-board-for-biodiversity-park