Bank Alfalah and WWF-Pakistan to Safeguard Endangered Indus River Dolphins

This initiative is part of the bank’s broader

commitment to environmental sustainability

including its goal to plant 100,000 trees

Business Reporter

Karachi: Bank Alfalah, one of Pakistan’s leading commercial banks, has pledged PKR 8.5 million in partnership with WWF-Pakistan to protect the endangered Indus River blind dolphins. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability, including its goal to plant 100,000 trees to combat climate change.

Community Engagement at the Core of Conservation

The partnership aims to engage local communities by:

• Establishing five community-based organizations (CBOs).
• Training 35 fishers on sustainable practices.
• Creating 10 nature clubs.
• Empowering 700 students to become conservation champions.

These efforts will contribute to securing a future for the Indus River dolphins, locally known as “Bhulan,” an endangered species found only in the Indus River.

Urgent Action to Save a Unique Species

The Bhulan population has dwindled to just 20% of its historical range, primarily due to habitat loss, entanglement in fishing nets, and pollution. Listed as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the species faces an uncertain future without decisive action.

Bank Alfalah’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

Commenting on the initiative, 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. By engaging local communities, we aim to safeguard dolphin habitats, raise awareness, and preserve a natural treasure that holds special significance for Pakistan.”

In addition to this conservation project, Bank Alfalah is also working with WWF-Pakistan on mangrove restoration. The bank has pledged to plant 100,000 mangroves by 2027, with 40,000 already planted.

Supporting Flood-Impacted Communities

Beyond environmental efforts, Bank Alfalah showcased its commitment to social responsibility by contributing USD 10 million to support communities affected by Pakistan’s recent devastating floods.

This multifaceted approach underscores Bank Alfalah’s dedication to creating a sustainable and socially responsible future for Pakistan.