sign in sign up
<<
Home , Black pond turtle, Brown roofed turtle, Haleji Lake, Hingol National Park, Hub Dam, Indian softshell turtle

Disclaimer: This ‘Research on the Illegal Trade in Freshwater in and ’ was made possible with support from the American people delivered through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of IUCN and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of USAID or the U.S. Government.

Published by IUCN Pakistan

Copyright © 2017 International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Citation is encouraged. Reproduction and/or translation of this publication for educational or other non-commercial purposes is authorised without prior written permission from IUCN Pakistan, provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of this publication for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without prior written permission from IUCN Pakistan.

Compiled by Dr. Syed Ali Ghalib Syed Ali Hasnain

Field Surveys undertaken by Adnan Hamid Khan Abdur Razzaq Khan

Coordination by Saeed Akhtar Baloch Sindh Wildlife Department

Edited by Danish Rashdi, IUCN Pakistan Naveed Ali Soomro, IUCN Pakistan Ruxshin Dinshaw, IUCN Pakistan

Cover Photograph by Zahoor Salmi

Designed by Azhar Saeed, IUCN Pakistan

Printed by VM Printer (Pvt.) Ltd. Table of Contents

Executive Summary 2

1 Introduction 3 1.1 Importance of Freshwater Turtles 3 1.2 Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan 4 1.3 Threats to Freshwater Turtles in Pakistan 4 1.4 Literature Review 4 1.5 Need for the Present Study 5

2 Objectives 7 2.1 Activities 7

3 Methodology 9 3.1 Indirect Observations 9 3.2 Direct Observations 9 3.3 Analysis of the Record of Consignments seized by the Sindh Wildlife Department 10

4 Results and Discussion 11 4.1 Focus Group Discussions 11 4.2 Consultations with Stakeholders 11 4.3 Field Surveys in Select Localities 12 4.4 Ecological Study on the Black Spotted Pond 15

5 Conservation Efforts 18 5.1 National Efforts 18 5.2 International Obligations 26

6 Recommendations 28 7 Conclusion 31 8 Acknowledgments 32 9 References 33

Appendix 1: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated at (2005-2007) 35 Appendix 2: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated in Sukkur (2006-2008) 35

Annexure 1: Freshwater Turtle Conservation Action Plan 37 Executive Summary

Five of freshwater turtles (FWTs) in Pakistan are globally threatened. The present study reviews the efforts made to protect the species and control their illegal trade. It also identifies the hotspots for the capture and export of freshwater turtles Sindh and highlights the successful efforts of the Sindh Wildlife Department to control this illegal activity in the Province through detection and registration of cases of the illegal trade of the species. The study emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of the status of the species and recommends actions for their safeguard.

Field surveys in Balochistan were also undertaken in area, and selected localities in Jafarabad and Naseerabad Districts (Khirthar Canal, Beron Khirthar Canal and Pat Feeder Canal areas). No instances / cases of illegal trapping or export of freshwater turtles were reported in Balochistan.

A Consultative Workshop to draft a Freshwater Turtles Conservation Action Plan was held in November, 2017 at Karachi and a brief action plan for the conservation of freshwater turtles was developed. This joint effort may serve as a milestone for the conservation of freshwater turtles in Sindh and Balochistan.

Wetlands of Deh Akro Wildlife Sanctuary. Q Naveed Soomro

2 1. INTRODUCTION

There are about 300 species of freshwater turtles worldwide and more or less 50% of them are threatened. Turtles have slow growth and late maturity with relatively modest annual reproductive output. They are responsible for cleaning the aquatic environment by feeding upon the dead organic material and diseased fish. The freshwater turtle is a keystone species which also controls the population of fish. 1.1 Importance of Freshwater Turtles Freshwater turtles are found residing in the whole system. This system comprises of many canals, irrigation ditches, ponds, agricultural ponds, fishing farms and water reservoirs. All these sites provide favourable for the turtles.

Freshwater turtles play a major role in maintaining balance in the ecosystem of any wetland. They act as scavengers by decaying dead organic matter. They act as indicators of a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Some of them are carrion eating species that feed on aquatic weeds and reduce eutrophication. Economically, freshwater turtles are considered more valuable compared to fisheries because of the presence of good quality flesh and fats which are in high demand in international markets for different purposes.

Hardella_thurjii

3 The pharmaceutical industry also utilizes turtle for irrigation purposes and water pollution. plastron for preparing specific medicines. China People, particularly fishermen, are unaware of the and Taiwan are considered the major markets for ecological role of turtles in the river ecosystem plastron imports. Freshwater turtles have served and consider the turtles as being harmful to the as an important food resource in many Asian fishing economy. countries. However, several countries in the region have made attempts for the conservation Turtle hunting takes place everywhere in the and management of the resource. In Asian region and people are well aware of this countries, freshwater turtles are rarely exploited business. Wildlife trade, particularly in freshwater for jewelry, tourist souvenirs, or leather; rather, turtles, has been taking place in a well organised they are mostly utilized in medicine and as food. manner in Sindh Province (Shah, 1996). 1.2 Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan 1.4 Literature Review Around 167 species have been recorded in In Pakistan, scientific studies have been Pakistan (Ghalib et al., 1976). As many as 105 undertaken on the status and distribution of species of have been recorded in Sindh freshwater turtles in Sindh, KPK and Punjab, with (Khan et al., 2012). Pakistan has eight species of the main objective being to determine the freshwater turtles, all of which can be found in distribution, status and abundance of freshwater Sindh and Balochistan. Based on the absence or turtle species, particularly in the districts rich in presence of horny scutes or scales on their wetlands, which potentially provide habitats for carapace, freshwater turtles have been divided turtles. into two categories, viz. Softshell Turtles and Hardshell Turtles. Softshell turtle species include Many researchers have worked on the the , Peacock Softshell distribution and conservation of freshwater Turtle, Indian Narrow-headed Softshell Turtle, and turtles, particularly in different locations in Sindh. Indian Flap Shell Turtle, while the Spotted Pond The information about the distribution and Turtle, , abundance of freshwater turtles in Sindh was first and Crowned River Turtle are Hardshell Turtle compiled by the Zoological Survey of Pakistan Species (Table 1). based on a survey on the distribution and status of freshwater turtles in the River Indus adjacent to 1.3 Threats to Freshwater Turtles in Sukkur Barrage, Guddu Barrage, Jamal din Wali, Pakistan and pond areas adjacent to Kandhkot during Besides poaching and trade, the threats to March and April 2003. A total of six species of freshwater turtles include unsustainable turtles i.e. smithi, Pangshura tecta, development, scarcity of water in rivers and Hardella thurjii, indica, gangetica canals, water diversion and extraction projects and punctata were recorded in the

Table 1: List of Freshwater Turtle Species Recorded in Pakistan

# Scientific Name Common Name 1 Geoclemys hamiltoni Spotted Pond Turtle 2 Pangshura smithii Brown Roofed Turtle Geomydidae 3 Pangshura tectum Indian Roofed Turtle 4 Hardella thurjii Crowned River Turtle 5 Nilssonia gangeticus Indian Soft Shell Turtle 6 Nilssonia hurum Peacock Soft Shell Turtle 7 Lissemys punctata Indian Flap Shell Turtle 8 Chitra indica Indian Narrow-headed Soft shell Turtle

4 . Q Naveed Soomro

study area. Chitra indica and Pangshura smithii Change) conducted several studies on freshwater were observed to be abundant in various parts of turtles and highlighted their illegal trade. The the study area (Azam et al., 2005). findings of Noureen and Khan (2007, 2007a) gave a preliminary status of freshwater turtles in Later, Noureen (2009) reported eight species of Punjab and Sindh. Noureen et al., (2008) freshwater turtles in the Indus River system. described the preliminary findings of the turtle Arshad and Noureen (2010) conducted a survey trade around the major barrages and headworks to identify the causes of mass mortality of of Punjab. Noureen (2009) gave an account of freshwater turtles downstream of the Sukkur freshwater turtles trade in Sindh, and later Barrage. Regarding illegal trading, Noureen et al. Noureen et al. (2012) gave an account of the (2012) investigated the consequences of the illegal trade in freshwater turtles of Pakistan. exploitation and status of freshwater turtles in 1.5 Need for the Present Study Pakistan. Safi and Khan (2014) studied the status and distribution of freshwater turtles in It has been observed that Soft-shell turtles are Charsadda, KPK. Khan et al. (2015) described the mostly targeted by local communities in Sindh distribution and current status of fresh water and Punjab because these turtles’ body parts are turtles in Sindh and KPK. Recently, Khan et al., in high demand in the international markets. 2016 have reviewed the distribution, threats, Freshwater turtle traders contact local conservation and status of freshwater turtles communities and offer them a significant amount in Sindh. of money to start the business and to adopt it as their main profession. As a result, the illegal trade Trade in freshwater turtles in Pakistan was first in freshwater turtle species and their body parts / brought to light through a joint study conducted derivatives has become a lucrative business in by WWF Pakistan and the Sindh Wildlife Pakistan and its seems to be well organized in Department for TRAFFIC International in 1996. the country, ranging from harvesting / poaching (Shah,1996). Baig (2006) reported the existence of species from their natural habitats to the illegal of the turtle trade, particularly the trade in body trade in the local and foreign markets. In view of parts of Softshell turtles. The Pakistan Wetlands the above situation, this study has been Programme under WWF Pakistan and the undertaken with the following objectives. Ministry of Environment (now M/o Climate

5 Brown Roofed Turtle (Pangshura smithii). Q Zahoor Salmi 2. Objectives

The specific objectives of the present study are: l Understanding the livelihood dependency of local communities engaged in the trade of freshwater turtles in Sindh and Balochistan. l Recommending measures needed to improve the situation in favor of freshwater turtles. 2.1 Activities To achieve the objectives of the project, the following activities were conducted: l A literature review on freshwater turtles in Pakistan was undertaken and secondary data was collected. l Freshwater turtle hotspots in Sindh and Balochistan were identified and surveys were conducted in the identified habitats. At least four surveys comprising of 3 members have been conducted over a duration of 5-6 days. l Consultations have been held with key informants from local communities, and knowledgeable individuals from government and civil society. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were held with local communities to understand the livelihood dependencies on trade and to gauge the level of awareness among the community when it came to conserving freshwater turtles. l The field data was analysed to prepare a draft study report and finalize the same with the IUCN Project team. l The study’s findings were presented at a workshop organized by IUCN.

7 Hingol River. Q Naveed Soomro 3. Methodology

The methodology includes both direct and indirect observation methods. 3.1 Indirect Observations These included Focal Group Discussions (FGDs) and interviews with stakeholders, including communities, to obtain information about the status, local use of, and threats to turtles. The FGDs were preceded by a questionnaire.

3.1.1 Focal Group Discussions Participatory approaches were utilized in rural areas in data gathering to enable local people to assess the problems and find measures for addressing them. It was found that the local people are well aware of the status of turtles in their environment and can help in improving the situation.

Focal group discussions were conducted using the participatory methodology to find out stress on freshwater turtle populations and identify their causes, and also to discuss remedial measures according to their perception.

The participation of people from all tribes living in the area was ensured in the discussion. In each group, about 10 — 15 persons participated in the discussion and gave their input. FGDs with local communities were conducted to understand the livelihood dependencies on trade and to increase the level of awareness at the community level to conserve freshwater turtles.

3.1.2 Interviews with stakeholders Interviews were conducted with stakeholders, including local communities, in turtle hotspot areas, which were identified in consultation with the Sindh Wildlife Department. Key informants from local communities and knowledgeable individuals from government and civil society were consulted. 3.2 Direct Observations These included visits/surveys of potential sites in Karachi, , Badin, Sujawal, Khairpur, Naushero Firoze, Sukkar, Ghotki and Sanghar Districts in Sindh, and Hub Dam, Hingol National Park area and selected localities in Jaffarabad and Naseerabad districts in Balochistan to record the existing situation of the freshwater turtle trade. The sites were identified in consultation with the Sindh Wildlife Department and the Balochistan Forest

9 3.3 Analysis of the Record of and Wildlife Department in light of the FGDs and meetings with stakeholders. Consignments seized by the Sindh Wildlife Department At least fourteen field surveys comprising of 3 The records provided by the Sindh Wildlife members for about 2 – 6 days have been Department relating to freshwater turtle conducted. Analysis of the field data has been consignments seized by them from poachers and made to prepare a report. illegal exporters have also been consulted to ascertain the present situation of illegal export.

Nilssonia gangeticus. Q Abdur Razzaq Khan 4. Results and Discussion

4.1 Focus Group Discussions The rural communities of Sindh are subject to many issues including shortage of drinking water, lack of health & education facilities, lack of livelihood opportunities and dependence on depleting natural resources. These issues have drastically affected the livelihoods of rural communities and pushed them towards poverty. The situation has been complicated by poor conditions of financial, natural, physical and human capital which in many aspects are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. In to combat poverty, communities adopt any means available to them, legal or illegal. Exploitation of freshwater turtles by the community in order to sustain their livelihoods is a major concern since the population of freshwater turtles has been declining drastically, one reason being the unsustainable harvesting of turtle species.

The local groups were asked about the status and local use of turtles. They were also asked about the techniques they use to capture turtles. It was found that generally, the Jogi, Baagri, Rawara, Barha, Gurgula, and Guruwanro communities are involved in the profession of turtle catching in Sindh. The Mallah and Mirbahar are also involved to some extent. They are completely dependent on capturing and selling turtles as they have no other source of livelihood. They sell the captured turtles to middlemen for Rs. 40 — 50 per kg. They are not fully aware as to where these middlemen supply these turtles. According to them, their sole dependence on turtle capture and trade means that if they give up this profession, their family and children will starve. When questioned about what they would do if the stock of turtles in the wild were to disappear, they could give no satisfactory answer as they believed that natural stocks are infinite.

In Balochistan, it was found that there is almost no record of turtle capture and trade in Lasbella, Jaffarabad and Naseerabad Districts, where the survey was conducted. Apparently, no illegal capture or export takes place in Balochistan. 4.2 Consultations with Stakeholders The general perception of the people interviewed about turtle trade is that it has been introduced in Pakistan by the Chinese while working on construction, canals and small dams projects. The Chinese initially encouraged local people

11 to sell these turtles as food items; later, this They are supposed to use Karachi Port to activity was scaled up to a commercial level. export their consignments but some have also extended their circles to Quetta, A total of 35 interviews were conducted during Balochistan Province, and use the Pakistan- this survey. Afghanistan border to export wildlife through illegal means. The findings of this exercise are as follows: In Sindh, the freshwater turtle trade is destined to l Turtle hunting groups search for turtles not Karachi, from where turtles and their body parts only in rivers but also in small canals, nearby are exported to other countries such as Hong water courses and agricultural fields. The Kong, China, South Korea and Vietnam (Noureen, average size of a small turtle hunting group is 2009; Noureen et al., 2012). 4-6 persons while in large groups, the average number of individuals ranges from 15 Poaching mostly from (Hadero to 30 persons. Lake, , and Mahboob Shah Lake), Sanghar district (Chotiari Wetland complex), and l The number of turtles captured per day Badin District (Phoosna Lake and Shaikh Keerio depends on the size of the turtle hunting Peer) has been reported. The main locations from group and on the availability of turtles at a where export of freshwater turtles to East Asian particular location. Out of 35 interviews countries takes place are Karachi, Lahore and conducted during the survey, only 17 KPK. interviewees responded to the question of 4.3 Field Surveys in Selected how many turtles they can capture in a day. The results showed that the minimum Localities average of turtle capture per day is 50, while the maximum average is 112 depending on Field surveys were undertaken in select localities the size of the turtle capturing group. in Sindh and Balochistan from 6th May to 21st May, 2017 and again in Balochistan in November l There is no defined season for collecting 2017, to collect information about the freshwater turtles and the people catch them occurrence, capture and export of freshwater throughout the year. Some people have turtle species there. Local communities, key expertise in collecting turtles, particularly stakeholders and knowledgeable persons were when there are low water levels in canals. contacted to obtain the desired information. According to them, it is very easy to locate Priority was given to the sites where the target turtles in low water when they are less active communities were found, covering the whole in winter season. Other turtle hunting groups region from Karachi to Thatta, Badin, Sanghar, are of the view that turtles are easily caught Shaheed Benazirabad, Khairpur, Sukkur, Ghotki in high water when they are more active and Noshero Feroz. Surveys were conducted in during summer. the priority areas where fishing and turtle capturing activities were in progress and l It has been noted during the field expedition instances of freshwater turtle capture and export that some of the professional wildlife were reported. poachers not only capture turtles on a commercial scale but also other reptiles and Field surveys were conducted in 20 locations in mammals that they encounter during hunting Balochistan and more than 12 locations in Sindh. such as snakes, monitor lizards, hedge hogs, Reconnaissance level visual surveys were jackals, jungle cats, otters and crocodiles. conducted and information was gathered from Some wildlife traders export different kinds of locals. The surveys consisted of either walking wildlife for supply to international buyers. along portions of river/pond/canal banks, or 12 driving on the banks. conversion for Most of the potential areas of freshwater turtles agricultural purposes has occurred in some have been covered in these surveys. Only a few places. Suitable basking sites for freshwater far flung and less known localities still remain to turtles are present in many areas and therefore be covered in future surveys. turtles could be visible if surveyed in the correct season. A brief description of the areas which were visited is given in the table below:

Table 2: Locations with findings of the surveys undertaken

Locations Findings

(A) Balochistan Hingol River No evidence of presence of fresh water turtles in the area was recorded. 25 26 45.4 N Personal communication with local people revealed that a long time ago 65 32 30.7 E freshwater turtles were found in springs near , but these later disappeared.

Jhalo village No evidence of occurrence of freshwater turtles was found. Personal 25 28 17 6 N communication with Mr. Muhammad Sharif, Conservator (Wildlife), Balochistan 65 31 35 5 E and Mr. Badal, Game Watcher revealed that freshwater turtles have not been recorded at least up to Ormara and onwards.

Hub Dam Freshwater turtles were seen but exact numbers and species could not be 25 14 35 5 N identified. 67 06 46 1 E

Safiullah Canal, Jaffarabad l Surveys were conducted at twenty sites located along three canals of 274934.4N, 675507.5E Balochistan viz. the Beron Kirthar Canal, Kirthar Canal and Pat Feeder Canal. Machchi Pul, Usta Muhammad l Two species of freshwater turtles were sighted at four sites only along the 280921.8N, 670243.3E Beron Kirthar canal in Jaffarabad District viz. Narrow-headed Soft Shell Khirthar Canal Regulator, Faizabad Area Turtle and Indian Flapshell Turtle. However, no evidence of turtles being 281322.4N, 675909.5E captured from these areas was recorded. l Three sites along the Pat Feeder Canal were visited but no turtles were Khirthar Canal Bridge, Faizabad sighted there. 281323.1N, 675908.5E l A survey was undertaken along the area running between the Kirthar Canal Beron Khirthar Canal, Faizabad and Beron Kithar Canal from the Saifullah Canal to the Umrani Area. The 281325.7N, 675909.0E water level at the Kirthar Canal was high so there were no sightings of freshwater turtles due to deep water. Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and l It was found that fishing takes place all along the canals but fishermen do Khirthar Canal not capture freshwater turtles; rather, if captured in fishing nets, they 281310.6N, 675608.7E release them. l There is no evidence of illegal hunting, poaching and trade of freshwater turtles from these areas.

Area between Beron Khirthar Canal As reported by Mr. Imdad Hussain, Deputy Ranger, Forest & Wildlife Department and Khirthar Canal at Usta Muhammad, this is the only canal system in Balochistan were FWTs are found. 281302.1N, 675432.8E

Area between Beron Khirthar Canal The entire area is water logged where rice cultivation takes place. and Khirthar Canal 281219.1N, 675321.1E

Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal 281221.1N, 675319.1E 13 (A) Balochistan Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal, 281359.1N, 675300.1E FWTs sightings

Umrani Area, Beron Khirthar Canal 281546.9N, 675403.3E FWTs sightings

Magsi Shah Area, 60 Deep 282148.6N, 674454.8E

Beron Khirkhar Canal FWTs sightings 282128.3N, 675705.9E

Between Khirthar Canal and Beron Khirthar Canal 282130.1N, 675740.1E

Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings 282526.3N, 675921.1E

Umrai Area / Shaikh Roopa Deep 282529.1N, 675922.2E

Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad 282715.4N, 680207.7E

Manjho Shori Pul, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282714.8N, 680210.2E

Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282754.4N, 680315.5E

Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282925.4N, 680545.5E

(B) Sindh

Safar Goth The locals said that freshwater turtles are available in the area but no hunting 25 13 13 1 N and poaching takes place. 67 08 28 5 E

Kalar Kahar Lake, Sukkar/Pano Aqil The lake was almost dry but during flooding the lake gets filled with water. The 27 44 19 7 N Sindh Wildlife Department released 350 freshwater turtles in this lake in 2016, 69 00 55 3 E which were confiscated from DHA, Karachi. As stated by a local, Mr. Sultan, due to the poor quality of water and unfavourable conditions, most of these turtles died. During the present visit, the water level was only 2 – 3 feet deep and only 7 – 8 freshwater turtles were seen,

Deh Akro Wetland Complex, The important wetlands of the complex viz. Chambh 1 & 2, Gunjo, Karanda, Shaheed Benazirabad Wichhaywari, Kharraro, Sambari and Teach Dandh were visited. About 300 26 00 23 8 N freshwater turtles, particularly the Indian Narrow headed Softshell Turtle (Chitra 68 42 32 0 E indica) , Indian Flap-shell Turtle (Lissemys punctata) , Black (Geoclemys hamiltonii) , and Crowned River Turtle (Hardella thurjii) were seen. 14 (B) Sindh Mund Jamrao Sanghar / Khairpur It is an important area for trade of freshwater turtles and Mr. Saddam Mallah is the main person who is involved in this business, as informed by Mr. Rahaib Shar, a local staff member of the Sindh Wildlife Department. As many as 360- 600 Freshwater Turtles were confiscated from Mund Jamro and adjoining areas in September 2016, and were later released by the SWD in the different wetlands of Nara.

Chotiari Wetland Complex, Sanghar It is an important area for freshwater turtles due to the presence of fish ponds 26 05 47 5 N and surrounding marshes. Illegal export used to take place from here to 69 09 23 9 E Shaheed Benazeerabad, Sanghar and Karachi, but now the practice has mostly stopped, as stated by locals. The Chotiari area supports more than 4000 to 5000 freshwater turtles as indicated by Mr. M. Ayub Mullah of Pakistan Fisher Folk, Sanghar. It was informed that the large scale capture of freshwater turtles takes place in Wadh area near Chotiari dam.

Badin District Some important wetlands for freshwater turtles in the district Badin are, Shukoor Dhand, Dahee, Mandhar, Phoosna, Charwo, Khanjo, Jari, Nira, Soomar and Somarodhands. Turtles occur but no hunting and poaching takes place. Some local people still capture freshwater turtles mostly from the wetlands of Tando Bago area.

Thatta District Poaching of freshwater turtles takes place at canals and marshes near Ghlumullah, Mirpur Sakro, Haleji and Keenjhar Lakes, Barrage Mori and 103 Mori. Bheels and Kohlis are involved in this business. Persons come and collect the stock from them for Rs.40 – 50 per kg. Freshwater turtles are also used as food by the Bheels. They are either sold as a whole or only the flesh is sold. The shell is also used for different purposes.

Sujawal District Freshwater turtles are found in the main River Indus, and are caught from there and supplied to exporters.

Dadu District Freshwater turtles are found in small numbers in marshy land near Bajara and Jhangara. No hunting and poaching takes place there.

4.4 Ecological Study on the Black hamiltonii, commonly known as Spotted Pond Turtle – a popular or Spotted Pond Turtle, is one of the oldest turtle species for export species on earth: remains of this species been found in the Siwailk Hills in Northern . The Black Spotted Pond Turtle is one of the most preferred species for capture for illegal export This species is categorized as vulnerable from Pakistan. Recently, scientific research has according to the IUCN Red list. It is protected as been initiated under University of Sindh, it is included in the Second Schedule of the Jamshoro. Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1972. It is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on A biological study along with the most notable International Trade in Endangered Species of confiscation details of export consignments for Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). this species has been undertaken, with the 4.4.1 Morphology following findings. G.hamiltoni is mainly black with small yellowish The Black Spotted Pond Turtle is a highly prized spots and much elevated carapace. The shell is species of freshwater turtle. Geoclemys convex, strongly arched with sloping sides with 15 three interrupted strongly arched keels or series 4.4.4 Feeding Habits of nodes. The head of the species is extremely The turtle is carnivorous and in the wild its main large and the snout is small. The head is black diet perhaps consists of snakes. Molluscovory is with yellow spots; the neck is gray with white also suspected in the due to its spots. The eyes are also black and the iris has moderately large head. Parts of the Snail Percula yellow spots. and algae were observed in its stomach.

Maximum carapace length reported in Molluscovory of the species is confirmed at is 405 mm (CL) in females and different localities, from India (Rajhasthan). It has 292.2mm (CL) in males. Females are reported to been reported to feed on Lemnaea spp. and attain a slightly larger size than males. Gyrulus spp. and Odento Larvae.

4.4.2 Distribution 4.4.5 Reproduction This species is found in Pakistan (Indus River The species is oviparous and is reported to lay Drainage) and River (Drainage System) two clutches in a single reproductive season. The North India (), and Bengal. clutch size of the species varies. The highest clutch size reported is 36 eggs, but it can also be In Sindh, this species is reported mainly in Thatta, as few as 12 to 13 eggs. The temperature Badin, Chotiari Reservoir, Sanghar, Nara Canal, required for the hatching of eggs is 28 – 30 oC Khairpur and Larkana. and eggs hatch in 50 to 60 days.

4.4.3 Habitat 4.4.6 Illegal Trade of Black Pond Turtle The animal is aquatic and mostly found in Smuggling of Black Pond Turtles from Pakistan to stagnant shallow, clear water, especially in oxbow other countries, especially to the South East lakes. Asian states and China, has become a common

Q Naveed Soomro Nara Canal Seepage Wetland. Q Naveed Soomro

practice over the last few years. A number of Airport on 20th September 2014. On 2nd cases have been reported over the last decade. October 2014, these were released in Halejii Lake by the Sindh Wildlife Department. 4.4.7 Confiscation of consignments of Black l A consignment of 62 Black Pond Turtles was Pond Turtles by the Sindh Wildlife Department confiscated by the Karachi Police reportedly from the Shanti Nagar area, on April 7th l About 200 Black Pond Turtles, smuggled 2016. As a result of a delay in rescuing the from Pakistan to Taxkorgan in China’s turtles, which were tightly packed in cartons, Xinjiang in August 2014, were seized by the 49 of them died. Chinese authorities, and were handed over to l A total of 170 female Black Pond Turtles were the Sindh Wildlife Department in a ceremony confiscated by the Sindh Wildlife Department at the Pak-China border. The officials of the on the Super Highway on 28th April 2016. Sindh Wildlife Department brought the turtles l A large number of Black Pond Turtles (780) back and released them into their natural were confiscated from Karachi during a raid habitat in Sukkur. on a house in Defence Housing Authority on l On September 20th 2014, 200 Black Pond 10th September 2016. A team from the Turtles were confiscated by the Sindh Wildlife Wildlife Department transported the Department at Karachi Airport while they consignment from Karachi to Sukkur. The were being smuggled alive in the luggage turtles were released at two different onboard to Bangkok. locations including Kalar Lake on Sukkur- l A shipment of 230 Pakistani Black Pond Ghotki road and in Nara Canal. (Dr. Anila Naz Turtles was seized at Karachi International Soomro, in litt.) 17 5. Conservation Efforts

In Pakistan, many efforts have been made by different governmental and nongovernmental organizations for the conservation of turtles. 5.1 National Efforts WWF Pakistan has explored the illegal trade in body parts of freshwater turtle species in Pakistan and shared the information with the concerned government authorities to update the of turtle species in Pakistan.

WWF Pakistan, through its ongoing projects and programmes, supports the conservation of freshwater turtles by creating awareness on the ecological importance of freshwater turtles; promoting sustainable use of natural resources; and reducing bycatch of turtles and introducing sustainable fishing practices. WWF Pakistan also facilitates the provincial wildlife departments in combating the illegal trade in freshwater turtles by helping them release confiscated turtles back into their natural habitat.

The Sindh Wildlife Department has been extensively undertaking efforts to combat illegal hunting, poaching and trade in freshwater turtles. It implements its wildlife act vigorously for the safeguard and protection of freshwater turtles. Consignments of turtle meat and body parts bound for East Asian countries have been confiscated by the department at the seaport and at Karachi and Sukkur airports.

5.1.1 Provincial Wildlife Protection Acts In Pakistan, wildlife protection and conservation is a provincial subject. Prior to 2007, freshwater turtles were not listed in the category of protected in any Provincial Wildlife Act. l The KPK Wildlife Department, after realizing the sensitivity of the issue, undertook the initiative to protect freshwater turtles in the province. On August 22nd, 2007 the NWFP Wildlife Protection Act 1975 was amended and all the freshwater turtles of the province were listed in Schedule III, a category of protected animals in the wildlife act. l The Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department revised the Punjab Wildlife Protection Act 1974, on November 30th, 2007, and made an amendment to include the Order Chelonia (Turtles and ) in Schedule III. l In March 2014, the Government of Balochistan also declared all eight freshwater turtles and the Afghan , ( horsfieldi) as Protected i.e. these shall not be hunted, killed, trapped, captured or traded. 18 l In September 2014, the Government of Sindh declared all eight species of freshwater turtles totally “Protected” in Sindh. (Table 3)

Table 3: List of Species of Freshwater Turtles and Land Tortoises Protected in Sindh and the Rules for Protection, Conservation and Compensation of freshwater turtles and Tortoises A: Land Tortoise

S.No. English Name Scientific Name Conservation Status IUCN Red List CITIES 1. Central Asian Tortoise Testudo horsfieldii Vulnerable Appendix II 2. elegans Low Risk Appendix II

B: Freshwater Turtles

S.No. English Name Scientific Name Conservation Status IUCN Red List CITIES 1. Indian Narrow- Headed Chitra indica Endangered Appendix II Soft Shell Turtle 2. Indian Soft Shell Turtle Nilssonia gangeticus Vulnerable Appendix I 3. Indian Peacock Nilssonia hurum Vulnerable Appendix I Soft Shell Turtle 4. Indian Flap Shelled Turtle Lissemys punctata Low Risk Appendix II 5. Black Spotted Turtle Geoclemys hamiltonii Vulnerable Appendix I 6. Brown Roofed Turtle Pangshura smithii Near Threatened Appendix II 7. Indian Roofed Turtle Pangshura tecta Low Risk Appendix I 8. Crowned River Turtle Hardella thurjii Vulnerable Appendix II

Hingol River. Q Naveed Soomro The rules to ensure protection and conservation of freshwater turtles and tortoises were notified in September 2014, with the following provisions.

Acts Prohibited:

1. i. The poaching, catching, trapping, netting of Turtles or/and Tortoises and Act prohibited using them as whole, parts, products or derivatives thereof is hereby declared as prohibited. ii. The trading, transportation, petting, caging and export of Turtles and Tortoise as live or dead, as a whole, parts, products and derivatives thereof is strictly prohibited.

2. Live Turtles and Tortoises found in unlawful possession shall be liable to Confiscation confiscation under the Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance, 1972. The confiscated Wild Turtles and Tortoises, their parts, products or derivatives thereof shall in no case be returned to offender

3. The provision of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1871 shall inter alia be applicable for Cruelty to Animals causing cruelty to Turtles and Tortoises. Act, 1871.

4. The confiscated live Turtles and Tortoises shall immediately be released by the Release in nature. Sindh Wildlife Department and their detention for purposes of enquiry shall in no case exceed 15 days from their confiscation.

5. Turtles confiscated as a group shall not be considered as one offence, but One head one offence. each head of Turtles and Tortoises shall be treated as a separate offence as the same have been captured, trapped, poached as an individual.

6. The Turtles being scavengers and crucial members of Fresh Water One head one offence. Ecosystems are rendering vital eco-system services of cleaning and purifying the water bodies by eating all types of floral and faunal dead waste pollutants, which are highly recognized as being beneficial to humanity and other Wing entities and are equal to Rs. 400/- per day only for their role as water purifier. The compensation for prohibiting the Turtles & Tortoises from rendering their Ecosystems services eco-system services and causing them shock by withdrawing them from rendered by Turtles and habitat shall be recovered as Rs 12,000/- per head. its compensation

7. The value of a Turtle & Tortoise, confiscated as dead and the one that dies Value of Dead Turtle as a during pendency of enquiry is fixed as Rs. 20,000/- per head and shall be whole or part thereof. recovered from the offender in addition to fine and compensation, while compounding the offence under provisions of Ordinance. The parts, products and the derivatives of Turtles and Tortoise recovered and confiscated shall be determined in terms of "heads" of Turtles exploited and used and the value shall be charged as Rs. 20,000/- per head.

8. The cost incurred for holding of Turtles and Tortoises outside habitat and its Repatriation cost. feeding during pendency of enquiry, its transportation and repatriation shall be recovered from the offender on actual basis while compounding the offence or Rs. 1000/- shall be recovered in lump-sum for each head of animal.

20 5.1.2 Recording Freshwater Turtle Hotspots in Sindh and Balochistan

Based on the present study which includes discussions, meetings and surveys undertaken in Lasbella district, Jaffarabad district and Naseerabad district of Balochistan and important sites in Sindh Province, the following hotspots/locations with regard to poaching and trade of freshwater turtles have been identified.

Karachi is considered as the hub of wild animal trade. In order to investigate the pet trade in local turtle species, all the potential animal trade markets of the city were also visited but no turtles were in stock there.

Important areas with reference to the occurrence and export activities of freshwater turtles were identified as detailed below. Table 4: Potential Sites of Freshwater Turtles in Sindh

S.No. Sites 1 Bajara, Dadu 262120.8N, 674549.8E , 26234.80N, 675152.6E 2 Baghar Mori 24 44 31.1 N, 67 59 16.7 E 3 Barrage Mori 242526.3N, 681525.6 E 4 Chotiari, Sanghar 26 12 31.3 N, 68 59 57.1 E 5 Dadu Canal, Sukkur 27.696695N, 68.840916 E 6 DehAkro Wetlands 260023.8 N , 684232.0 E 7 Deh Bagri, Thatta 25 19 22.5 N ,68 13 85.5 E 8 Deh Jangisar, Thatta 24 11 34.5 N ,67 37 54.7 E 9 Guddu Barrage, Kashmor 29 23 59.6 N ,68 09 20.6 E 10 Heleji Lake, Thatta 24 47 12.3 N ,69 45 56.9 E 11 Indus, Dadu 262348.0 N, 675152.6 E 12 Jhangarha, Dadu 262006.5N, 674311.9E 13 Jhangarha Canal, Dadu 262038.9 N, 674334.4 E 14 , Thatta 25 02 38.6 N, 68 09 20.6 E 15 Khirthar Canal, Sukkar 27.697310 N, 68.844321 E

21 S.No. Sites 16 Kalar Lake, Panoaqil 251313.1 N, 670828.5 E 17 Kotri Barrage Area, Kotri 252202.6 N, 661895.7 E 18 Makli, Thatta 19 Manchhar Lake, Dadu 262534.9 N, 673046.5 E, 262414.0 N, 673501.8 E 20 Mirwah Canal, Sukkar 27.67162 N, 68.850473 E 21 MundJamrao, Sanghar 22 Nara Canal, Sukkar / Khairpur 265339.2 N ,685738.8 E , 27.672360 N, 68.851668 E 23 Phoosna Lake, Badin 24 Rohri Canal, Sukkar 27.671827 N, 68.849285 E 25 Rice Canal, Larkana 27.697068 N, 68.842691 E 26 103 Mori, Thatta 243446.3 N, 675330.3 E

Table 5: Potential Sites of Freshwater Turtles in Balochistan

S.No. Sites 1 Saifullah Canal, Jaffarabad 274934.4N, 675507.5E 2 Machchi Pul, Usta Muhammad 280921.8N, 670243.3E 3 Khirthar Canal Regulator, Faizabad Area 281322.4N, 675909.5E 4 Khirthar Canal Bridge, Faizabad 281323.1N, 675908.5E 5 Beron Khirthar Canal, Faizabad 281325.7N, 675909.0E 6 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal 281310.6N, 675608.7E 7 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal 281302.1N, 675432.8E 8 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal 281219.1N, 675321.1E 9 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal 281221.1N, 675319.1E 10 Area between Beron Khirthar Canal and Khirthar Canal, 281359.1N, 675300.1E FWTs sightings

22 S.No. Sites 11 Umrani Area, Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings 281546.9N, 675403.3E 12 Magsi Shah Area, 60 Deep 282148.6N, 674454.8E 13 Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings 282128.3N, 675705.9E 14 Between Khirthar Canal and Beron Khirthar Canal 282130.1N, 675740.1E 15 Beron Khirthar Canal FWTs sightings 282526.3N, 675921.1E 16 Umrai Area / Shaikh Roopa Deep 282529.1N, 675922.2E 17 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad 282715.4N, 680207.7E 18 Manjho Shori Pul, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282714.8N, 680210.2E 19 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282754.4N, 680315.5E 20 Pat Feeder Canal, Naseerabad FWTs sightings 282925.4N, 680545.5E

It may be appreciated that a maximum number of potential sites for freshwater turtles has been recorded in spite of limited resources and time for detailed and extensive field work. The exercise needs to be extended further to cover remoter areas in Sindh and Balochistan.

Baqar Lake, Sanghar. Q Naveed Soomro Sample Locations

24 5.1.3 Details of cases against freshwater turtles captured and illegal export consignments confiscated by the Sindh wildlife Department l The Sindh Wildlife Department has been playing the most important role in controlling illegal wildlife trade, particularly the freshwater turtles trade in the province. Consignments of 3600 kg and 700 kg of turtle meat and their body parts (Indian Narrow – headed Softshell Turtle and Indian Softshell Turtle) bound for the East Asian countries were confiscated by the Department at sea and airports in Karachi in 2005 and 2007. (Appendix 1) l The Sindh Wildlife Department, Sukkur division alone recorded 22 cases of turtle capture for subsistence and commercial use during 2006 – 2008. (Appendix 2) The main sites of these catches were: Indus River (near Guddu, Kashmor, Sukkur and Rohri), Ghotki, Feeder (near Ubaro), Sano Lake (Ghotki), Pano Aqil, Shahi Wah and Murad Wah (Kashmor). Kirthar canal (Sukkur) and Kandkot. (Noureen, 2009) l During 2009 – 2014, 23 cases of possession of freshwater turtles, including 14 cases of confiscation of flesh of freshwater turtles, were registered and Rs. 489,000/= recovered as compensation. The locations included Khairpur, Sukkur, Guddu, Kashmor, QambarDokri, Larkana, and Thul (Jacobadad). l During 2014 – 2017, 9 cases of confiscation of FWTs were registered by the SWD, Karachi office and tried in court. The consignments / property included 1853 live Black Spotted Pond Turtles which were confiscated along with 5 kg, turtle meat and 4342 dried parts of freshwater Softshell Turtles. The turtles were released back in various selected localities of the Indus River System including Nara Canal (Sukkur), Halejii Lake, Keenjhar Lake, Kallar Lake (Sukkur), Jamrao Canal (Shaheed Benazeerabad) and K.B. Feeder, Jamshoro. Table 6. Turtle Cases Detected / Registered on Fresh Water Turtle Trade (2014 - 2017)

S. No Case No / Accused Details of property Place of detection Remarks C.P No

1. August 2014 229 live Black Smuggled from Confiscated by Chinese Spotted Pond Turtles Pakistan Custom Authorities. confiscated Repatriated from China and released back in Indus River System from Guddu to Sukkur Barrages. 2. 46/245/2014 Sajid Faiz 218 live Black Jinnah International Compounded Rs. 50000/- Cheema Spotted Pond Turtles Airport, Karachi by court. Turtles released confiscated back in Haleji Lake and Keenjher Lake. 3. 49/245/2015 Ali Ahmed 4342 dried fresh Karachi Compounded Rs. 30000/- by Soomro water Soft shell International court. (Property is still lying turtle parts confiscated. Container Terminal, with Pakistan Customs West Wharf, Department.) Karachi 4. 20/494/2016 Chaoli Kang 580 live and 20 dead DHA, Karachi Compounded Rs. 25000/ & others Black Spotted Pond each by court. Turtles Turtles Total 9 Total 600 released back in Kaller Lake, accused confiscated. Sukkur. booked (03 Chinese Nationals and 06 Pakistani Nationals) 25 S. No Case No / Accused Details of property Place of detect Remarks C.P No

5. 21/494/2016 Imran Ali & 180 live Black DHA Karachi Compounded Rs. 25000/ others Spotted Pond each by court. Turtles Turtles confiscated. released back in Nara Canal, Sukkur 6. 07/46/2016 Unknown 159 live and 11 Super Highway, Released back in Haleji dead Black Spotted Karachi. Pond Turtles. Lake. Total 170 confiscated. 7. 01/02/2016 Ghulam 307 live Black Deh Akro-II Wildlife Turtles released back in Rasool & Spotted Pond Sanctuary Jamrao Canal, Shaheed Turtles confiscated. Others Benazirabad. Total 04 accused booked.

8. 40/2016 Limo Jogi 5 kg Fresh water Thatta Compounded Rs. 2000. turtle meat confiscated 9. 08/2017 180 live fresh water LooniKot, Jamshoro Compounded Rs. 100000. turtles confiscated 180 live turtles were released back in K.B Feeder, Jamshoro

(Source: Sindh Wildlife Department, Karachi)

5.2 International Obligations 5.2.2 CITES Pakistan has an obligation to implement the The Convention on International Trade in recommendations of international Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora conventions/agreements to which it is signatory; (CITES) is an international agreement between the two which are related to trade are TRAFFIC governments which came into force on 1 July International and CITES. 1975. Pakistan is a signatory of the Treaty. The aim of CITES is to ensure that international trade 5.2.1 TRAFFIC International in specimens of wild animals and plants does not This is a Non-Governmental Organisation, threaten the survival of species in the wild and it established in 1976, based in Cambridge, U.K. accords varying degrees of protection to more with regional offices worldwide. It is a wildlife than 35,000 species of animals and plants. trade monitoring network and has a role as a global specialist, leading and supporting efforts Appendices I and II of the CITES restricted the to identify conservation challenges and support international trade, export and import of wildlife solutions linked to trade in wild animals and species including freshwater turtles, their parts plants. TRAFFIC works closely with IUCN and and their products as well. WWF, making critical contributions to their l Appendix I: Lists species that are threatened conservation goals. TRAFFIC’s 2020 goal is to with and are or may be affected by help reduce the pressure of illegal and trade. Commercial trade in wild-caught unsustainable wildlife trade on biodiversity and specimens of these species is illegal enhance the benefits to wildlife conservation and (permitted only in exceptional licensed human well being that derive from trade at circumstances). sustainable levels.

26 l Appendix II: Lists species that are not such species is subject to strict regulation in necessarily threatened with extinction, but order to avoid utilization incompatible with may become so unless trade in specimens of the survival of the species in the wild.

Chotiari. Q Naveed Soomro 6. Recommendations

Human activities have been endangering fresh water turtle species and therefore, we need concerted conservation action. The various species of turtles distributed in Sindh province are being collected unsustainably from the wild for both local use and to trade. They are being exploited indiscriminately by certain ethnic groups or communities mainly for trade and to support their livelihoods. The most critical threat is the illegal trade which is in practice in many parts of Asia. Further, turtle habitats are being extremely degraded, destroyed, and fragmented, and this also results in a decline in their population. The long term survival of animals depends to a large extent on the local communities who live alongside them.

It is time to intervene for survival of the freshwater turtle species and develop successful strategies along the following lines with input from stakeholders. a. Development of Conservation Action Plan A comprehensive Freshwater Turtle Conservation Action Plan needs to be formulated with input from all stakeholders. The Action Plan would identify the issues/threats and their causes and suggest solutions and entrust roles and responsibilities. b. Enhancing awareness of the local communities to fresh water turtle conservation and sustainable use The local communities are unaware of the importance of turtles in an ecosystem. Therefore, an awareness raising programme for communities needs to be initiated. This includes conservation education programmes at schools, through religious teachings and installing information billboards at potential sites. c. Providing technical assistance and training to local communities Capacity building of local communities needs to be undertaken for fresh water turtle conservation and management. Community Based Organizations (CBOs) should be established in collaboration with provincial wildlife departments and the existing local organizations of the area. d. Building bridges between government and the communities to foster joint management of turtles CBOs need to liaise with the provincial wildlife departments in turtle conservation efforts. 28 e. Regular field surveys and h. Exploration of alternate livelihood ecological research opportunities for communities There is a need to initiate scientific research and In order to minimize dependency of communities regular monitoring of the population, occurrence, on turtles for subsistence and livelihood, alternate status and hotspots of turtles in Sindh and sources of income generation through ecotourism Balochistan through effective use of different development may be explored. management tools. i. Strict implementation of turtle f. Environmental education and protection legislation and rules awareness raising programmes The legislation for conservation of turtles should These programmes are required for raising be properly implemented. awareness among the general public, wildlife traders and relevant government departments Export of parts of turtles should be checked and and policy makers which will be helpful in local markets should be monitored to minimize combating the turtle trade. There is also a need the use of turtles in trade. for developing awareness raising materials like j. Designation of protected areas field guides, field survey manuals and posters for for freshwater turtles species this purpose. For the protection of endangered species of g. Initiation of captive breeding freshwater turtles, suitable areas should be programmes designated as protected. Freshwater turtle captive breeding programmes should be initiated and encouraged to cater for the livelihood of people dependent on turtles.

Wetlands along Guddu Barrage. Q Naveed Soomro Consultations with the Game Watcher and local communities, Hingol National Park. Q Abdur Razzaq Khan 7. Conclusion

The River Indus, its basin and its tributaries, including canals, lakes, waterways, streams, swamps, marshes and ponds, all provide feeding and breeding grounds for freshwater turtles.

Most of the soft shell turtles in Sindh are struggling for their existence. Environmental and climate changes and natural disasters are also major threats to turtle survival. Pollution, habitat degradation, contamination of water with industrial, agricultural, or domestic waste, pesticides sprays, fertilizers, global warming, and pathogens, all serve as threats to the existence of freshwater turtles. Sindh as a whole, and particularly the areas of Karachi, Sanghar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Thatta and Badin are hotspots of the turtle trade. The local communities residing near wetlands depend on fishing for their survival. In most of the areas in interior Sindh local tribal communities like the or the Kail communities are involved in the trade of turtles along with fishing. Poverty is one of the main reasons for their involvement in the turtle trade.

The situation is worsened by the influence of middle men who exploit the poor and buy turtles for a meager price. The turtle catchers depend on subsistence hunting and hence do not agree to leave this profession at any cost. These people argue that they do not have any other alternate sources of income for their families. There is a need to start family welfare programmes for the turtle catchers by providing them with alternate income generating opportunities. At its level, the Sindh Wildlife Department has been making every effort to curb the illegal capture and export of freshwater turtles in Sindh, as is evident from the new laws and regulations to curb the illegal capture and export of freshwater turtles and the confiscation cases registered from 2006 to date. As far as Balochistan is concerned, occurrence of freshwater turtles has been recorded in three canals of Jaffarabad & Naseerabad Districts viz. Khirthar, Beron Khirthar and Pat Feeder Canals, but there is no evidence of illegal trapping and export of freshwater turtles from there due to less opportunities of collecting the species.

The findings of this study were presented in a workshop for stakeholders held on 7th November 2017, and the participants were requested to draft a freshwater turtles Conservation Action Plan for Sindh and Balochistan, which was finalised and is appended herewith (Annexure 1).

31 8. Acknowledgments

Sincere thanks are due to Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative, IUCN-Pakistan, for his overall supervision of the project and for providing us an opportunity of undertaking successful research on an important threatened group of reptiles. We are also grateful to Mr. Danish Rashdi, Project Manager, Mr. Syed Ghulam Qadir Shah, National Coordinator, MMF Programme, Mr. Naveed Ali Soomro, and Ms Amber Ajani, Environmental Education Experts and Ms. Saveeta Khiani and Mr. Hairuddin Baloch, Field Coordinators for their immense support and fruitful suggestions. The help and assistance from the officers and field staff of the Sindh Wildlife Department in the field studies is also thankfully acknowledged.

We also gratefully acknowledge the guidance in the field work from Mr. Samandar Khan Khosa, D.C.F., Jaffarbad, Mr. Punhal Khan Rind, D.C.F., Naseerabad, Mr. Raja Asif Liaquat, D.C.W., Hingol National Park, and Mr. Imdad Hussain, Deputy Ranger, Balochistan Forest Department. We are also very indebted to the participants of the Consultative Workshop on Freshwater Turtles held on 7th November, 2017 at Karachi for their valuable comments and recommendations for the formulation of a Conservation Action Plan for Freshwater Turtles in Sindh and Balochistan.

32 9. References

1. Arshad, M. and Noureen, U. 2010. Investigating mass scale mortality of freshwater turtles downstream Sukkar Barrage, Indus River, Sindh. A report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Program. Pp10. 2. Azam, M. M, Fakri,M. S. and Saifullah.(2005). Some observation o the distribution an abundance of freshwater turtles in the River Indus. Rec. Zool. Surv. Pakistan, 16: 46 – 51 3. Baig, K.J. (2006). Environmental Baseline Survey and Monitoring of Emergency Rehabilitation and Modernisation Project: A report submitted to Zoological Science Department, Pakistan Museum of National History. Pp. 22. 4. Khan, M. Z., Kanwal, Roohi., Ghalib, S.A., ,S, Siddiqui,T.F., Farooq, R. Y, Yasmeen, G., Abbas, D. and .Zehra, A.,2012 . Current Status and Distribution of Reptiles of Sindh. Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences. 8 (1): 26 – 34. 5. Khan, M. Z., Abbas, D., Ghalib, S.A., Yasmeen, R., Siddiqui,S., Mehmood, N., Zehra, A., Begum, A., Jabeen, T., Yasmeen G. and Latif, T. 2012a. effects of Environmental Pollution on Aquatic Vertebrate and Inventories of Haleji and Keenjhar Lakes: Remsar Sites. Canadian Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 6(1): 1759- 1783. 6. Khan, M.Z., Safi, A., Fatima, F., Ghalib, S.A., Hashmi, M.U.A., Khan, I.S., Siddiqui, S., Zehra, A. and Hussain, B. 2015. An Evaluation of Distribution, Status and Abundance of Freshwater Turtles in Selected areas of Sindh and Provinces of Pakistan. Canadian Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 9(1):3201-3219. 7. Khan, M. Z., Kanwal, R., Ghalib, S.A., Fatima, F., Zehra, A., Siddiqui,S. Yasmeen, G., Safi, A., Hashmi, M.U.A., Hussain, B., Iqbal, M.A., Manzoor, U. and Ullah, U. 2016. A review of distribution, threats, conservation and status of freshwater turtles in Sindh. Canadian Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 10 (3): 3997 – 4009 8. Noureen, U. and Khan, A.(2007). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan: A Preliminary assessment of their status in Dara Ismail Khan, North West Frontier Province. A research report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Programme. P 23 33 9. Noureen, U. and Khan, A. (2007a). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan: A Preliminary assessment of their status in Punjab and Sindh. A research report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Programme. P 23 10. Noureen, U. Braulik, G. T. Arshad, M. and Khan, N.H.(2008). Illegal Trade in Freshwater Turtles Parts: Preliminary findings of turtles trade in major barrages and head-works of Punjab. A research report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetlands Programme. P 28. 11. Noureen, U. (2009). Freshwater Turtles of Pakistan. Illegal Trade in Sindh: Preliminary Findings of trade in Freshwater Turtle Parts. A Survey Report submitted to the Ministry of Environment’s Pakistan Wetland Programme. Pp. 36 12. Noureen, U., Khan, A. and Arshad, M. 2012. Exploring illegal trade in freshwater turtles of Pakistan.Rec. Zool. Surv.Pakistan. 21: 19 – 24. 13. Safi, A. and Khan, MZ. 2014. Distribution and current population status of freshwater turtles of district of Charsadda of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Journal of Studies. 1(4):31-38. 14. Shah, N. (1996). Wildlife Trade in Sindh. Report published by WWF-P for TRAFFIC International. Pp. 57.

34 Appendix 1: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated in Karachi (2005-2007)

S. Consignment Quantity Species identified Date Consignment Port Used Consignment No type bound for confiscated by

1. Frozen body 3,600 Kg Indian narrow- June, Vietnam Karachi Sea Karachi headed soft shell 29th Port parts of turtles turtle (Chitra indica) Customs 2005 Authority

2. Dried body 700Kg Indian soft shell turtle July Beijing-China Karachi Air Sindh Wildlife parts of turtles (Nilssonia gangetica) , 27th, Port Department Indian narrow headed 2007 softshell turtle (Chitra indica)

Source: Noureen, 2009

Appendix 2: Record of consignments of freshwater turtles confiscated in Sukkur (2006-2008)

S. No Date of Place of City Nature of offence Compensation Chalan offence Recovered (Pak. Rupees) 1. 21/09/2006 Indus River Guddu Illegal catching of 4 10,000 freshwater turtles 2. 06/10/2006 Indus River Rohri Illegal catching of 10,000 freshwater turtle 3. 06/10/2006 Indus River Guddu Illegal catching of 10,000 freshwater turtle 4. 12/10/2006 Indus River Kashmore Illegal catching of 10,000 freshwater turtle 5. 17/10/2006 Indus River Sukkar Illegal catching of 8,000 freshwater turtle 6. 22/10/2006 Indus River Rohri Illegal catching of 8,000 freshwater turtle 7. 16/02/2007 Ghoti Feeder Ubaro Illegal catching of 6,000 freshwater turtle 8. 01/05/2007 Indus River Guddu Illegal trapping of 12 23, 000 turtles 9. 05/06/2007 Indus River Kashmore Illegal catching of 5,000 freshwater turtle 10. 10/01/2007 Indus River Kashmore Illegal catching of 2,000 freshwater turtle 11. 02/07/2007 Samno lake Ghotki Illegal catching of 11,000 freshwater turtle 12. 02/07/2007 Indus River Guddu Illegal catching of 5,000 (Guddu) freshwater turtle 13. 19/09/2007 – Puno Aqil Illegal catching of 13,000 freshwater turtle 14. 14/03/2008 Kashmore Illegal trapping of 4 7,000 turtles

35 S. No Date of Place of City Nature of offence Compensation Chalan offence Recovered (Pak. Rupees) 15. 14/04/2008 Shahi Wah Sukkur Illegal trapping of 4 5,000 Kirthar Canal turtles 16. 14/04/2008 – Kandhkot Illegal trapping of 6 5,000 turtles 17. 14/04/2008 – Kandhkot Illegal trapping of 10 10,000 turtles 18. 22/04/2008 Begarji Rice – Illegal catching of 3,000 Canal freshwater turtle 19. 05/05/2008 Indus River Guddu Illegal trapping of 8 8,000 (Guddu Barrage) turtles 20. 11/07/2008 Saifullah Canal – 6 kg turtle meat 30,000

21. 29/05/2008 Murad Wah Kashmore Illegal trapping of 10 5,000 turtles 22. 25/06/2008 – Puno Aqil 325 kg turtle meat 30,000

Source: Noureen, 2009

36 Annexure 1 Fresh Water Turtle Conservation Action Plan

IUCN Pakistan organised a consultative to prepare a brief Action Plan on three topics viz. workshop on 7th November, 2017 to discuss the Conservation; Research and Surveys; and findings of the study conducted on illegal trade in Education, Awareness and Capacity Building. The freshwater turtles in Sindh and Balochistan. following is the Action Plan suggested by the Following the presentation of the study’s findings, participants of the workshop. the participants of the workshop were requested

Fresh Water Turtles Conservation Action Plan

(A) CONSERVATION

Identified Issues Suggested Actions Responsibility Timeline

Formulation of a A consultative workshop to be organised, to IUCN, Federal Ministry 6 months National Action Plan for be attended by representatives of focal of Climate Change FWTs Conservation communities as well as representatives of relevant govt. depts. working in the area. The participatory approach is to be used in formulation of the National Action Plan. Community Based Community Based Organisations (CBOs) to Wildlife Departments, 1 – 2 years Conservation of FWTs be established in focal areas and their NGOs, Local awareness and capacity built in FWT communities conservation. In order to initiate community based conservation, training sessions need to be carried out with the members of CBOs particularly in FWT identification, monitoring techniques, data gathering, nest translocation etc. These groups may share their activities among other participating or neighbouring communities. They will also ensure the protection of FWTs in their areas. Strengthening of Sindh Since they are the custodians of wildlife, Provincial 1 – 5 years and Balochistan Wildlife including FWTs, in their respective Governments Departments provinces, they have the prime responsibility for conservation and management of these species. For this purpose, the departments may be strengthened by providing a sufficient number of staff. The committed and trained staff may be posted in FWTs’ prime habitats. The staff should be trained in turtle conservation techniques and should be in adequate numbers. They may also be provided incentives or rewards annually based on their performances related to protection of species and enforcement of rules and regulations.

37 (A) CONSERVATION

Identified Issues Suggested Actions Responsibility Timeline

Proper surveys and The surveys are to be conducted to determine: NGOs, Universities, 1 – 2 years identification of FWT l Status of wild turtle population in Wildlife Departments hotspot areas different areas of Sindh and l Evaluate the impact of human activities Balochistan, Federal on wild turtle populations Ministry of Climate l Identify the sensitive areas in respect Change (Zoological to turtle capturing or poaching and other Survey Department) threats Thus identify the hotspots of FWTs in the province and produce a scientific basis for effective management and promotion of conservation of FWTs. Comprehensive Assessing changes in population and NGOs, Universities, 3 – 5 years Monitoring Plan habitats over time, in response to applied Wildlife Departments conservation actions would require of Sindh and monitoring to detect specific trends from Balochistan, Federal estimates of population size, relative Ministry of Climate abundance, level of threats and habitat Change (Zoological changes, if any. Survey Department) Implementation of laws The legislation for conservation of turtles Provincial Wildlife Immediate for protection of FWTs and export should be properly implemented Departments and and their illegal export and strict vigilance in this regard is to be other relevant maintained. departments like levies, police, customs etc. Establishment of Captive breeding is often perceived as Provincial Wildlife 3 – 5 years Captive Breeding being the safest form to minimize pressure Departments, NGOs, Centers of FWTs on wild populations and this can be utilized CBOs commercially as well. FWTs captive breeding centers should be established in select areas in collaboration with the local CBOs who will manage it in consultation and collaboration with the Wildlife Departments. This may support the livelihood needs of people who are dependent on turtles as a source of income generation. Poverty alleviation of The communities living near FWT habitats NGOs 3 – 5 years communities are mostly poor and they exploit FWTs for their livelihood. In order to minimize their dependency on turtles for subsistence and livelihood, alternate sources of income generation (e.g. ecotourism) need to be explored. Designation of FWT Following the IUCN definition of protected Provincial Wildlife 3 – 5 years Protected Area area, suitable areas in the provinces should Departments be designated for the protection of endangered species of FWTs. The community may also be involved in their management. 38 (A) CONSERVATION

Identified Issues Suggested Actions Responsibility Timeline

Coordination between An effective mechanism of coordination Provincial Wildlife 1 – 2 years institutions/departments between institutions and related Departments and departments to be developed for NGOs conservation of FWTs (B) RESEARCH AND SURVEY

Field surveys and Conduct field surveys and initiate ecological Federal Ministry of 1 – 3 years ecological research on research on FWTs in different ecological Climate Change FWTs in different areas zones of Pakistan to determine occurrence, (Zoological Survey of Pakistan habitat and distribution, population, present Department), status, hotspots and current threats to Academia, NGOs FWTs. Socio-Economic Survey Socio-economic status of local NGOs, Relevant 1 – 3 years communities in different FWT distribution Government sites and its impact on turtle population to Departments, be investigated. Alternate livelihood Academia opportunities for the communities who depend on FWTs for subsistence to be explored Establishment of turtle Feasibility study for the establishment of Wildlife Departments, 2 – 3 years hatcheries FWT hatcheries in suitable areas to be Academia, NGOs , conducted for turtle farming and to evaluate Local communities the trading and marketing of FWTs. Assessment of sites for hatcheries and farming centres and identification of nesting sites to be made. Establishment of Special area to be established as a Wildlife Departments >5 years Conservation Park Conservation Park set aside with protected status for conservation of nature and natural resources including FWTs. It will remain a continuing focus of Wildlife Departments and local communities. It will help protect and balance our natural resources while promoting outdoor recreational opportunities. It will also provide research facilities related to fauna including FWTs. GIS based research GIS and remote sensing based tools utilised IUCN, WWF – P, 3 – 5 years for habitat mapping and identifying the SUPARCO, hotspots for FWTs. It will also generate Geography species distribution and richness map, Department of Karachi and potential for sustainable harvest. University

39 (B) RESEARCH AND SURVEY

Identified Issues Suggested Actions Responsibility Timeline

Pollution & Habitat Sewage, pesticides and effluents are Local CBOs will <5 years Degradation drained into water bodies. Therefore, contact the lobbying for use of environmental friendly Administrator of Civic organic organisms needs to be done at the agency (Municipality) local community level. and also lobby with other organizations to initiate a campaign to discourage harmful practices of polluting the FWTs habitat. Local CBOs/NGOS will contact media to launch a campaign so that environment friendly organic organisms are used. (C) EDUCATION, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING

Formation of The communities living near FWT areas to Provincial Wildlife 6 – 12 Community Based be mobilised through formal and informal Department, NGOs, months Organisations (CBOs) meetings to raise local people’s Local communities, conservation awareness. They will be Local organisations organised to support in planning, implementing and execution of conservation and management efforts of Provincial Wildlife Departments in their area. The capacity of CBOs will be built in this regard. Conservation Education Conduct conservation education and CBOS, NGOs, Wildlife 1- 5 years and Awareness awareness programmes for local people, Departments, Print Programmes general public, public representatives like and electronic media councilors, village religious leaders and teachers through lectures, discussions, and development and dissemination of field guides, posters, stickers, brochures, and leaflets. Social electronic and print media can also be used. Preparation of Field guides, posters, stickers, brochures, Wildlife Departments Short term Education and leaflets and NGOs Awareness Material Wildlife Laws in Local At present the wildlife laws are available in Provincial Wildlife Short term Languages English. In order to increase the Department understanding of the majority of people including local people, they need to be translated and made available in and other local languages.

40 (C) EDUCATION, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING

Identified Issues Suggested Actions Responsibility Timeline

Capacity Building of Build the capacity of wildlife staff in Provincial Wildlife Short term Wildlife staff and identification, handling and captive care of Department government officials turtles. The officials of government departments mainly Custom Authorities should be trained in recognizing turtle species and parts of turtles to stop illegal hunting, poaching and export. Specialized courses at The Universities should include specialized Universities University level about courses at different levels about wildlife. wildlife

41 33