Islamabad: December 26 2024, – After pledging to plant 100,000 trees to combat the impact of climate change, Bank Alfalah, one of the largest commercial banks in Pakistan, has partnered with WWF-Pakistan for another initiative, committing PKR 8.5 million to safeguard the endangered Indus River blind dolphins.
The partnership will engage local communities by establishing five Community-based organizations (CBOs), train 35 fishers, establish 10 nature clubs, and empower 700 students to become conservation champions, ensuring a brighter future for this unique species.
The Indus River dolphin, locally known as “Bhulan,” faces an alarming decline and is listed as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Its population has declined to a mere 20% of its historical range due to a confluence of threats such as habitat loss, entanglement in fishing nets, and pollution.
Commenting on the partnership Madiha Javed Qureshi, Head of Corporate Communication at Bank Alfalah said “We are proud to collaborate with WWF on this one-of-a-kind initiative, which highlights a unique species of dolphins which only has a habitat in the Indus River. Through this partnership, we will engage local communities in safeguarding dolphin habitats, raising awareness, and ultimately helping to grow their population, preserving a natural treasure that holds special significance for Pakistan.
Beyond this crucial dolphin conservation effort, Bank Alfalah is actively contributing to environmental sustainability through its partnership with WWF-Pakistan for mangrove plantations. The bank has pledged to plant 100,000 mangroves by 2027 and has already successfully planted 40,000.
In the wake of the recent devastating floods in Pakistan, Bank Alfalah demonstrated its unwavering support by contributing a substantial USD 10 million to flood-impacted communities. This significant contribution reflects the bank’s deep commitment to social responsibility and its proactive role in supporting those in need during times of crisis.
This initiative aligns with Bank Alfalah’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 14 (Life Below Water).
