Hingol National Park: A Jewel of Pakistan's Natural Heritage

 Hingol National Park is a testament to Pakistan's natural and cultural heritage. Its unique integration of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, coupled with its rich biodiversity, makes it a site of global significance. By implementing sustainable management practices, involving local communities, and promoting ecotourism, Hingol Serving a model for conservation in the region. It is our collective responsibility to preserve this natural jewel for future generations to cherish Hingol National Park, named after the Hingol River, derives its name from historical and mythological accounts. The river flows centrally through the park, linking diverse habitats such as mountains, valleys, estuaries, sand dunes, and the Arabian Sea. Hingol National Park is the largest national park in Pakistan, featuring both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

The Park has a unique setting being the largest National Park in Pakistan and the only one with integrated terrestrial and marine habitats. The Hingol River, the largest river outside the Indus River system forms the integrated link between mountains, valleys, riverine habitats, coastal sand dune areas, estuary and the Arabian Sea. It is the life support system for both the wildlife and the people living in the Park.

 

 

  

Hingol is a natural jewel of Balochistan inhabited by several tribal groups such as Degarzai, Angaria, Channal, Umradi, Mangiani, Kurd, and Bizanjo. It has unique features including the centuries old and world renowned pilgrim site of Hinglaj, magnificient clay mountains and rare mud volcanoes, a diverse coast with sand dunes, salt flat, estuary, beaches, rock headlands and the Arabian Sea.

The park was established in 1988, consolidating areas including the Dhrun Wildlife Sanctuary, Hingol area, and the intervening Rodani-Kacho and Northern Plains. The park's marine zone was later expanded in 1997, extending to waters up to 9 meters deep. The terrestrial area spans approximately 625,000 hectares, and the marine zone covers 47,000 hectares.

Geographical and Ecological Significance

Hingol's unique setting is defined by its diverse habitats, which include mountains, valleys, riverine systems, coastal dunes, estuaries, and the Arabian Sea. Central to its ecosystem is the Hingol River, the largest river outside the Indus system, which serves as a lifeline for the park's wildlife and the communities residing within its boundaries.

The park lies at the convergence of three zoogeographical regions:

1. African (Ethiopian) Region: Home to species like Chinkara gazelle, sandgrouse, and Acacia senegal.
2. Palarctic Region: Supporting Afghan Urial, Sindh Ibex, and winter migratory birds such as the Houbara Bustard.
3. Oriental Region: Habitats for Bengal foxes, Indian cobras, and Indian porcupines.

It features an extraordinary combination of landscapes, including:

• Coastal regions with sand dunes, estuaries, beaches, and mudflats.
• Mountainous areas, including the Hingol River valleys and the Tranch ranges.
• Marine zones, forming a natural marine-terrestrial linkage.

Unique geological formations include mud volcanoes (e.g., Chandragup), spectacular clay mountains, and salt flats.

The main core areas will include the West estuary (Kund Malir side), the  Gurangatti-Hinglaj-Gri mountain block, the Rodani Kacho area, the north Dhrun slopes, the Regati-Kundh triangle (Babro-River), and the Upper Pachri and Guran Valley (East of Tranch). Four Game Reserves will be developed in the Buffer zone outrside the Park, but to be integrated in the Park management system, including Sangori and Sarhad in Las bela district, Washiab East of Dhrun in Awaran district, and SarBhat-Ballard in Gwadar district.

1.3 Flora and Fauna

Hingol lies at the intersection of three zoogeographical regions—African (Ethiopian), Palearctic, and Oriental—resulting in remarkable biodiversity.

Flora

Hingol National Park, located in southern Balochistan, is home to a diverse range of vegetation that reflects the Saharo-Sindian type, extending from the Sahara Desert in Africa to the Mekran Coast and Thar Desert in India. The park's flora is influenced by its unique landscape, with vegetation thriving in valleys, floodplains, riverbeds, and coastal plains, while large areas, such as mudflats and rocky terrains, remain barren.

Key features of the park’s vegetation include:

• Low Species Diversity: The overall diversity is limited, with relatively richer vegetation found in moist mountain valleys and higher altitudes.
• Dominant Vegetation: Common trees include Tamarix species, Prosopis cineraria (Mesquite), Acacia nilotica, and Salvadora oleoides. Bushes like Haloxylon sp., Aerva javanica, and Sueda sp. dominate, alongside grasses like Cenchrus sp., Panicum spp., and Saccharum spontaneum.
• Endemics: Certain species, such as Tamarix stricta and some Heliotropis, are endemic to the region, contributing to its ecological significance.

Special habitats include:

1. Riverbeds and Floodplains: Dense vegetation of Tamarix spp., Salvadora, and Prosopis species, with grasslands in sandy streambeds.
2. Inland Sand Dunes: Vegetation includes trees like Zizyphus nummularia, Cadaba farinosa, and bushes such as Calligonum polygonoides and Commiphora mukal.
3. Estuarine Saline Flats: Dominated by Tamarix sultanii and succulent plants like Arthrocnemum sp.
   

The park boasts approximately 150 recorded plant species, with its flora playing a critical role in sustaining the ecological balance and supporting wildlife in this arid region.

Fauna

Summary: Fauna of Hingol National Park

1. Wildlife of Coastal Foothills and Plains

The coastal area of Hingol National Park supports diverse wildlife due to its sand dunes, rocky hills (Sappat Mountains, Aghore Hills, Jabal Haro-Kund Malir), and agricultural fields. Unique species include:

• Sand Dunes: Sand swimmer lizards (Ophiomurus) and Saw-scaled Sand Viper (Echis carinatus sochureki).
• Plains and Dunes: Red Fox, Golden Jackal, Balochistan Gerbil, Indian Gerbil, Desert Jird, Sandgrouses, Larks, Wheatears, and several sand lizards (Acanthodactylus species).
• Rare Species: Spiny-tailed Lizard (Uromastyx hardwickii) is limited to one population.
  Chinkara Gazelle, Desert Wolf, and Hyena populations have nearly disappeared.

2. Wildlife of Beaches and Estuaries

The beaches are home to crabs and endangered sea turtles like the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), though sightings are rare. The estuaries serve as feeding grounds for migratory birds like plovers, sandpipers, flamingos, and spoonbills. Year-round residents include the Pacific Reef Egret (Egretta gularis), Caspian Tern, and Whiskered Tern.

3. Wildlife of Central Hingol Floodplains and Riverbanks

This area includes floodplains, tamarix vegetation, and tree-rich habitats. Wildlife includes:

• Birds: Spotted Owlet, Sindh Woodpecker, Rufous-tailed Shrike, Grey Heron, and the critically endangered Sociable Plover.
• Reptiles: Marsh Crocodile, Indian Water Monitor (Varanus bengalensis), and Baloch Green Toad.
  Human activity and flooding have reduced populations of lizards, rodents, and predators like leopards and jungle cats.

4. Wildlife of V-shaped Mountains and U-shaped Gorges

The V-shaped mountain walls support limited wildlife like Ibex, Black Rock Agama, and birds of prey. U-shaped valleys with ephemeral pools provide habitats for Chinkara, Caracal, Leopard, and partridges, although water is scarce.

5. Wildlife of Eastern Mountains

This lesser-studied area, including Pachhri, Sarhad, and Deo-Beharo valleys, has potential for diverse wildlife. Notable species include Urial, Hyena, and Leopard. Chinkara populations are nearly extinct, requiring reintroduction for ecosystem restoration. Key wildlife corridors connect this area to surrounding valleys and ridges.

6. Microhabitats

Key microhabitats include:

• Sand Dunes: Provide habitats for rodents and lizards.
• Ephemeral Pools: Essential for crocodiles, fish (e.g., Mahseer), and birds.
• Caves: Limited but home to bat populations (e.g., Dhrun Mountain).
  Marine microhabitats like coral reefs and littoral zones are vital for aquatic species.

Human activity, habitat destruction, and natural disasters (e.g., floods) have greatly impacted the park's wildlife. Restoration efforts, including reintroducing species like Chinkara and enhancing water resources, are critical to preserving the park's rich biodiversity.

1.4 Human Population

The park’s population of 5,600 individuals, consisting of about 1,000 families, resides in small tribal communities, primarily engaged in fishing, herding, and subsistence farming. Tribal groups such as Degarzai, Kurd, and Bizanjo are present.

Key settlements include:

• Interior communities in Central Hingol, Northern Plains, and Tranch Valley.
• Coastal communities, notably in Kund Malir, Sangal, and Malan areas.

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2. Management Issues and Development Options

2.1 Challenges

1. Wildlife Conservation: Decline in species due to habitat degradation, hunting, and reduced prey availability.
2. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Overgrazing, livestock intrusion, and predator attacks create conflicts with custodial communities.
3. Infrastructure Development: Projects such as the Makran Coastal Highway and industrial activities pose threats to natural ecosystems.
4. Lack of Resources: Limited funding, trained personnel, and research facilities hinder effective management.
5. Tourism Impacts: Increased visitation, especially for spiritual tourism at Hinglaj, is causing overcrowding and environmental stress.

2.2 Development Opportunities

1. Ecotourism Potential:
• Coastal and marine ecotourism in Kund Malir and Malan.
• Wildlife viewing in areas like Machi and Hinglaj.
• Pilgrimage tourism focused on Hinglaj Mata shrine.
2. Research and Education:
• Establish research stations in Pachhri Valley and Rodani Kacho.
• Develop an information center and educational programs at Aghore.
3. Rewilding Initiatives:
• Reintroduce species like Chinkara Gazelle and Wild Donkey.
• Protect wildlife corridors and core habitats.
4. Community Development:
• Empower local custodial communities through vocational training, eco-tourism, and game management.
• Promote differential development to reduce over-reliance on park resources.

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3. Management Prescriptions

3.1 Zoning and Core Areas

1. Core Areas: Strict protection zones include:
• Kund Malir estuary and coastal plains.
• Rodani Kacho, Upper Pachhri, and Gurangatti-Hinglaj areas.
2. Buffer Zones: Four game reserves outside the park—Sangori, Sarhad, Washiab, and SarBhat-Ballard—will integrate sustainable use activities.

3.2 Wildlife Management

1. Protection Measures:
• Enforce bans on hunting and overgrazing in core zones.
• Fence valley entrances to exclude livestock.
2. Species Reintroduction:
• Reintroduce Chinkara Gazelle in Pachhri Valley and coastal Sappat.
• Establish a safari area around Chandragup mud volcano.

3.3 Tourism Development

1. Infrastructure:
• Develop eco-lodges and camping facilities at Kund Malir and Qadu Goth.
• Construct an Alexander the Great historical safari route.
2. Activities:
• Dolphin and whale watching, hiking, and birdwatching.
• Educational tours for schools and tourists.

3.4 Research and Monitoring

1. Research Focus: Monitor populations of Ibex, Urial, Chinkara, and large predators.
2. Collaboration: Partner with academic institutions, NGOs, and tour operators for conservation and education initiatives.

3.5 Community Integration

1. Custodial Community Role:
• Employ locals as community game watchers and eco-tourism guides.
• Establish village conservation funds.
2. Education and Training:
• Provide vocational training and establish primary schools.
• Encourage alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on livestock grazing.

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Overall

The Hingol National Park Management Plan offers a comprehensive framework for conserving biodiversity while integrating socio-economic development. By focusing on habitat protection, species reintroduction, ecotourism, and community involvement, the park can sustain its ecological integrity and contribute to regional development. Collaborative efforts and adaptive management are essential to ensure the park’s success as a natural and cultural treasure of Pakistan.

The Author was part of Hingol National Park “ Protected Areas Management Plan and implementation team” during 2005-2006.  

Balochistan Water: Challenges, Opportunities, and Sustainable Solutions

By Yahya Musakhel - Manager Business Development, PPAF

Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan by area, is an arid to semi-arid region with fragile and limited water resources. The province faces a multifaceted water crisis that threatens its agriculture, economy, food security, and environment. With a population of approximately 12.3 million, predominantly rural, Balochistan relies heavily on groundwater and seasonal floodwaters to meet its water needs. However, due to poor water management, over-reliance on groundwater, and climate change, the province is grappling with acute water shortages and degradation of water quality.

  

 

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges, opportunities, and sustainable solutions related to water management in Balochistan, emphasizing its importance for agricultural productivity, poverty alleviation, and socio-economic development.

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Challenges

1. Limited Water Availability

• Arid Climate: The province receives an average annual rainfall of 50–300 mm, with significant spatial and temporal variability.
• Low Water Resources Utilization: Of the 21.49 million acre-feet (MAF) of total available water resources, only 7.93 MAF is utilized, leaving a substantial 13.55 MAF unutilized.

S.#	Description	Quantity (MAF)
		Available	Utilized	Balance
A.   Indus Water as per Indus Accord
1	Perennial	3.870	3.052	0.820
2	Flood	4.620	--	4.620
Total		8.490	3.052	5.440
B.   Non Indus Basin
1	Flood Runoff	10.793	2.222	8.571
2	Groundwater	2.210	2.659	(-)    0.459
Total		13.003	4.881	8.112
G. Total		21.493	7.933	13.552

 

• Declining Groundwater Levels: Groundwater accounts for only 9% of the total available water in Balochistan, but over-extraction has led to a sharp decline of 2–3 meters annually.

 
2. Agricultural Water Mismanagement

• Overdependence on Agriculture: Agriculture accounts for 93% of the total water use in Balochistan, yet water-use efficiency is alarmingly low. Traditional irrigation methods waste significant amounts of water.
  
  
  
• Runoff Wastage: Approximately 60% of surface water flows unutilized to the sea due to insufficient storage and flood management infrastructure.
  

HYDROLOGICAL  INFORMATION

·       Total River Basins in Balochistan                                        18

·       Sub Basins                                                                                73

·       The annual average rainfall                                                       50 – 300mm

·       Decline of water table due to over draft.                             2-3 m per year

·       Balochistan is an arid zone with scanty rain

·       and extreme / moderate Temperatures.

·       Total average annual runoff generated                              10.793 MAF

·       Runoff utilized / conserved so  far through Dams /         2.222  MAF

o   Flood Dispersal Structures.

·       Balance available to be harnessed through                       8.571 MAF

·       Storage Dams / Flood Dispersal Structures

3. Climate Change and Extreme Weather

• Droughts: Balochistan has experienced recurrent and prolonged droughts, with the most severe spanning 1997–2005. These droughts severely impact agriculture, livestock, and water availability.
• Floods: High-intensity floods in 2007, 2010, and 2012 caused significant destruction to infrastructure and agriculture, highlighting the province's vulnerability to climate extremes.
  
  
  

4. Infrastructure and Policy Deficiencies

• Inadequate Storage: Limited dam and flood dispersal structures lead to water wastage. Only 2.22 MAF of the 10.79 MAF of floodwater runoff is conserved.
• Indus Water Utilization: Balochistan's allocated share of 8.49 MAF under the Indus Water Accord remains underutilized due to lack of infrastructure and policy gaps.
• Mismanagement in Urban Areas: In Quetta, the water table has dropped below 300 meters due to indiscriminate tubewell drilling and lack of alternative sources.

EVALUATION  OF THE GROUND WATER RECHARGE AND UTILIZATION

 

5. Deforestation and Watershed Degradation

• Forest Cover Loss: Forests, critical for groundwater recharge, cover only 2.2% of Pakistan's area, with Balochistan suffering from high deforestation rates. Overgrazing, firewood collection, and timber extraction exacerbate water scarcity by degrading watersheds.
   

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Opportunities

1. Untapped Water Resources

• Floodwater Potential: With 8.57 MAF of unutilized floodwater runoff, Balochistan has significant potential to harness this resource for irrigation and storage.
• Surface Water Development: Currently, only 40% of surface water is utilized. Increased development of storage infrastructure could unlock greater potential.

2. Agriculture Modernization

• High-Value Crops: Transitioning to less water-intensive, high-value crops like fruits and vegetables can improve water productivity and profitability.
• Irrigation Technology: Adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems can significantly enhance water-use efficiency.

3. Renewable Energy for Water Extraction

• Solar-powered water pumps and desalination plants could provide sustainable solutions for water-scarce areas, reducing reliance on groundwater.

4. Policy Reforms

• Effective implementation of integrated water resource management (IWRM) policies can address inefficiencies and ensure equitable water distribution.
• Formulating provincial water laws and improving coordination among stakeholders can enhance water governance.

5. Community-Based Initiatives

• Community involvement in water conservation projects and watershed management can strengthen local resilience to water scarcity.
• Revival of traditional water systems like karezes can provide cost-effective solutions for small-scale water needs.

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Sustainable Solutions

1. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

• Develop a comprehensive water policy encompassing laws, flood disaster management, and land-use planning to ensure efficient water use and sustainable socio-economic development.
• Implement basin-wide water management for Balochistan’s 18 river basins, ensuring equitable water distribution among sectors.

2. Improved Water Storage Infrastructure

• Construct new dams and upgrade existing flood dispersal structures to store excess runoff water.
• Build small check dams in upland areas to recharge groundwater and reduce flooding.

3. Groundwater Regulation

• Enforce strict regulations on tubewell installations and groundwater extraction.
• Promote artificial groundwater recharge methods such as rainwater harvesting.

4. Modernization of Agriculture

• Promote water-efficient irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems.
• Shift cropping patterns to less water-intensive crops and increase awareness about water conservation among farmers.

5. Climate Adaptation Strategies

• Establish drought-resilient water supply systems and diversify livelihoods to reduce reliance on agriculture.
• Implement afforestation programs to restore watersheds and improve groundwater recharge.

6. Urban Water Management

• Improve water supply systems in Quetta and other urban areas by investing in desalination plants and recycling wastewater.
• Reduce water losses in urban supply networks through better maintenance and monitoring.

7. International Collaboration

• Collaborate with regional countries on transboundary water management and climate adaptation projects.
• Seek technical and financial support from international organizations to implement large-scale water conservation initiatives.

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Conclusion

The water crisis in Balochistan is a critical challenge that demands immediate and coordinated action. With its arid climate and over-reliance on groundwater, the province faces severe threats to its agricultural productivity, livelihoods, and overall socio-economic stability. However, the untapped potential of surface and floodwater resources, coupled with innovative technologies and effective policy reforms, provides an opportunity to address these challenges sustainably. By investing in infrastructure, modernizing agriculture, and fostering community participation, Balochistan can secure its water future and pave the way for inclusive development.

This holistic approach will not only alleviate poverty but also contribute to national food security and economic growth, ensuring a sustainable future for the province and its people.