Sukkur, The World Bank has initiated the construction of a new office building for the Sindh Wildlife Department in Sukkur, a move aimed at bolstering conservation efforts in the region, particularly for the protection of the Indus Blind Dolphins. The project, spearheaded by World Bank Task Team Leader Mr. Francois Onimus and Co Task Team Leader Ms. Thiruni Liyanage, was officially launched this Thursday.

According to The World Bank, the initiative is part of a broader engagement with the Sindh government to enhance local wildlife preservation activities. Project Director of the PMO SBIP, Mr. Ghulam Muhuddin Mughal, and Deputy Conservative Officer of the Sindh Wildlife Department Sukkur Division, Mr. Adnan Hamid, underscored the project’s significance in supporting the department’s ongoing efforts to protect the endangered Indus Blind Dolphins. The funding provided has facilitated the procurement of essential rescue equipment including an ambulance for dolphins, motorcycles, and boats for patrolling and emergency response.

The World Bank mission also reviewed other related projects in the region, including the desilting of the Rice Canal, which irrigates over 481,000 acres of fertile land in Larkana, Dadu, and Qambar Shahdad Kot districts. The delegation expressed satisfaction with the progress of the work, which is crucial for local agriculture as well as wildlife habitats.

In addition to the wildlife department project, the World Bank officials visited the Sukkur Barrage and received updates on the rehabilitation and modernization of the Guddu and Sukkur barrages, critical infrastructure for managing the region’s water resources. The visit was attended by various local and international stakeholders, including engineers from the PMO SBIP and consultants from China.

This new office building represents a significant step forward in the Sindh government’s collaboration with international bodies to enhance environmental and wildlife conservation strategies within the province.