49372-002: greater thal canal irrigation project

Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Project (RRP PAK 49372)

Environmental Impact Assessment

Project number: 49372–002 September 2021

Pakistan: Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Project Annex M: Biodiversity Action Plan Prepared by the Irrigation Department, Government of the Punjab for the Asian Development Bank. This is an updated version of the draft originally posted in February 2020 available on https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/pak-49372-002-eia. This environmental impact assessment is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section on ADB’s website. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

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https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/pak-49372-002-eia

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IMPRINT

© Irrigation Department, Government of the Punjab in association with Asian Development Bank

and Landell Mills Ltd.

Authors:

Dr. Tahir Rasheed (Team Lead), Muhammad Fiaz Joyia, Rana Muhammad Mazhar Liaqat, Aamir Saeed

Khan, Zeeshan Khalid, Syed Muhammad Shamim Fakhri, and Hamid Sarfraz

269-E, Street 13-B, E-11/4, Islamabad, Pakistan

Tel. +92 (51) 2222469 | Cell +92 (333) 5590803

[email protected] | www.devconsult.pk |Skype/Twitter hsarfraz

Place and date of publication:

Islamabad; 23 October 2020

Greater Thal Canal Biodiversity Action Plan

i

Contents

1. Introduction 2

1.1. Context 2

1.1.1. Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Investment Programme 2

1.1.2. GTCIIP Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4

1.2. Biodiversity Action Plan 7

1.2.1. Need and Importance of BAP for GTCIIP Area 8

1.2.2. Biodiversity Protection: Challenges and Opportunities 9

2. Introduction to the Area 14

2.1. Geographical Location and Climate of the Area 14

2.2. Socio-Economic Profile of the Area 15

2.3. Landcover and Habitats 17

2.3.1. Sand Dunes 17

2.3.2. Agricultural Land 19

2.3.3. Protected Areas 19

2.3.4. Habitat Change 21

2.4. Criteria for Selection of an Ecologically Representative Site 21

2.4.1. Size 21

2.4.2. Diversity 21

2.4.3. Naturalness 22

2.4.4. Rarity 22

2.4.5. Fragility 22

2.4.6. Typicality 23

3. Floral Management 25

3.1. Natural Flora 25

3.2. Scientific Research 25

3.3. Protection of Flora 26

3.3.1. Habitat Management 26

3.3.2. Carrying Capacity 26

3.3.3. Suitability of Habitat 27

3.3.4. Re-Introduction of Species 27

3.3.5. Invasive Species of Range Vegetation 27

3.3.6. Control of Feral, Exotic and Invasive Species 27

3.3.7. Introduction of Improved Peripheral Rangeland Management Practices 27

3.3.8. Complete Exclusion of Domestic Livestock From the Rakhs 27

3.3.9. Precautions Against Accidental Grassland Fires 27

4. Fauna Management 30

4.1. Avifauna 30

4.1.1. Avian Diversity 30

4.1.2. Houbara Bustard: A Special Case 31


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4.2. Mammals 34

4.3. Amphibians, Reptiles and Invertebrates 34

4.4. Scientific Research 36

4.5. Wildlife Management 36

4.5.1. Illegal Practices and Overexploitation of Natural Resources 37

4.5.2. Recommendations 38

5. Communities and Conservation 40

5.1. Community Situation 40

5.2. Agriculture-Desert Interface 40

5.3. Livestock-Wildlife Interface 41

5.4. Agriculture/Livestock Benefits to Biodiversity 41

5.5. Pressures on Biodiversity from Farming 42

5.6. Human Settlements with their Livestock Breeds 42

5.6.1. Positive Effects of Grazing 43

5.7. Biodiversity’s Benefits to Agriculture and Livestock 43

5.8. Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use 43

5.9. Participatory Natural Resource Management 44

6. Management of Rakhs 46

6.1.1. Rakhs – Location and Area 46

6.2. Challenges for Management of Rakhs 48

6.2.1. Impact of GTC, Agriculture and Livestock on Rakhs 48

6.2.2. Communities’ Dependence on and Perception about Rakhs 49

6.2.3. Rakhs’ Conservations Value 50

6.3. Management Arrangements 50

6.3.1. Structure and Staffing 50

6.3.2. Law Enforcement 52

7. Business and Land Management 54

7.1. Agriculture 54

7.2. Livestock 55

7.3. Water Resources 59

7.4. Recreational Opportunities 59

8. How to Get There? 62

8.1. Major Constraints and Opportunities 62

8.1.1. Major Issues 63

8.1.2. Major Constraints 63

8.1.3. Potential Opportunities 64

8.1.4. Stakeholder Views on Biodiversity Management 65

8.2. The Action Plan 66

8.3. BAP Implementation Arrangements 67

8.3.1. BAP Consultant 68

8.3.2. Implementation Arrangements for Follow-up Actions 69

8.4. Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism 69


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BOXES

Box 1: Qualities that make Thal’s biodiversity special 9

Box 2: The challenge is human 40

FIGURES

Figure 1: Mitigation measures hierarchy 7

Figure 2: Biodiversity 8

Figure 3: Temperatures in Bhakkar District (2009-2020) 14

Figure 4: Rainfall in Bhakkar District (2009-2020) 15

Figure 5: Clouds and humidity in Bhakkar District (2009-2020) 15

Figure 6: Logical process of biodiversity degradation 48

Figure 7: Current organogram of Range Forest Division, Bhakkar 51

Figure 8: BAP implementation organogram 68

Figure 9: Organogram of BAP Consultant 69

TABLES

Table 1: GTCIIP potential impacts and mitigation measures 4

Table 2: Challenges and opportunities 11

Table 3: Threatened avifauna species 31

Table 4: List of large mammals in Thal 34

Table 5: Rakhs under the Range Management Division, Bhakkar 46

Table 6: Additional staff required for effective rakh management 51

Table 7: Livestock biodiversity in GTCIIP area 57

Table 8: The Biodiversity Action Plan 66

MAPS

Map 1: GTCIIP area 3

Map 2: Landcover in GTCIIP area 18

Map 3: Thal Game Reserve vis-à-vis the project area 20

Map 4: Rakhs in GTCIIP area 47

ANNEXES

Annex 1: Follow-up Actions for Government of the Punjab 71

Annex 2: Equipment Specifications 80

Annex 3: Field Offices Specifications 81


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Acronyms and Glossary

Abiana Irrigation water cess

ADB Asian Development Bank

CBC Choubara Branch Canal

CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

CMS Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

FD [Punjab] Forest Department

FWFD [Punjab] Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Department

GoP Government of Pakistan

GoPb Government of the Punjab

GTC Greater Thal Canal

GTCIIP Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Investment Programme

ha hectare

HEC Higher Education Commission

HFI Houbara Foundation International [Pakistan]

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature

Jogies Snake charmers and wanderers who collect medicinal plants and reptiles for

preparing ayurvedic medicines

km kilometres

M&E monitoring and evaluation

MBC Mankera Branch Canal

MC Main Canal

O&M operation and maintenance

PA protected area

PFI Pakistan Forest Institute

PFRI Punjab Forestry Research Institute

PMNH Pakistan Museum of Natural History

Rakh Conserved/protected forest or rangeland area

SPS [ADB] Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009

TCEF Thal Conservation Endowment Fund

UC union council

WPD [Punjab] Wildlife and Parks Department

WWF-P Worldwide Fund for Wildlife, Pakistan

ZSD Zoological Survey Department


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Acknowledgements

Many individuals and institutions helped us in one way or another in gathering, analysing and

compiling the required information in this Biodiversity Action Plan. The authors would like to extend

their gratitude to experts from academia, Punjab Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Department, and

district agriculture, livestock and Irrigation departments with whose guidance the team was able to

explore the study data, and who also provided relevant literature and their valuable inputs throughout

the course of the study.

First, we are thankful to provincial and district government representatives, national NGOs such as

WWF-Pakistan and individuals for their immense support and encouragement in completing this

important task. Thanks are especially due to Mr. Javiad Mustansar, Assistant Director Wildlife; Mr.

Nadeem Ashraf Waraich, DFO Range Management Bhakkar; Mr. Umer Farooq, Range Officer,

Bhakkar; Mr. Khan Bahadar Javed, Deputy Director, Agricultural Extension District Bhakkar;

Chaudhary Muhammad Aamir Agriculture Officer (Technical); Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Additional

Director, Livestock, District Bhakkar; Dr. Ghulam Murtaza, Assistant Disease Investigation Officer; and

officials of irrigation department, for sharing, gathering and analysing the information, their valuable

comments and backstopping. Their support remained with the team right from the data collection,

analysis and writing of the report. The acceptance ad interaction by local communities has been a

significant support in undertaking the survey and collection of valuable information. Their hospitality

is especially acknowledged.

We are also thankful to the Landell Mills Ltd (LML), for entrusting us with this challenging but exciting

task on behalf of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The guidance and support by Mr. Alex Trowell,

Water Specialist, LML; Mr. Neil Urwin, International Environment Specialist, LML and Dr. Akhtar Iqbal,

Environment Specialist, LML is especially acknowledged for critically reviewing the drafts and valuable

feedback. Last, but not the least, this assignment could not have been possible without dedication

and active involvement of the team members for fields visits, and collection and compilation of field

data which was a challenging task.

On behalf of the dev~consult, we are deeply indebted to all for their great contribution!

Tahir Rasheed, PhD

Hamid Sarfraz


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Prologue

This Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) is the first comprehensive ten-year plan for management of

identified ecological hotspots (rakhs) within the GTCIIP area. This is a plan for all those with an interest

in or influence on the area, and it has been prepared in close partnership with Punjab Forest, Wildlife

and Fisheries Department (FWFD) following engagement and debate with relevant stakeholders,

including the beneficiary communities. Its starting point is the GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report

(2020)1 which provides baseline information against which the success of future actions arising from

this BAP can be measured. This plan is about influencing the nature of future change in the ways which

will render the rakhs (protected areas) in a better state to harbour native biodiversity and future

generations to use it sustainably.

The fundamental approach that underpins this BAP is delivering sustainable development and in

support of that, taking an ecosystem approach. Mitigating and adapting to climate change is a sub-

national priority and delivering this is considered throughout. The plan also embodies the principles

of green infrastructure, and provides opportunities to address and make good use of it at a landscape

scale, to deliver a wide range of benefits for people.

The BAP has a vision and outcomes that are long-term (showing where we want to get to by 2030),

strategies that are for ten years and beyond (indicating how we will get there), and a delivery

framework showing projects and initiatives. The key areas to focus upon have been identified to

maintain the functioning of ecosystems and ecosystem services provided by rakhs in GTCIIP command

area. This plan seeks to deliver multiple interlocking objectives, adding value to what is already being

done. It will always favour delivery that enhances environmental, social and economic objectives

simultaneously wherever this is possible.

This BAP comprehensively covers the conservation and protection measures for the habitat, flora and

fauna within the GTCIIP area, particularly rakhs. It also proposes institutional strengthening measures

to enhance capacity of the local FWFD offices and creates an interface with other relevant

stakeholders in the area, particularly Bhakkar District. The BAP also suggests appropriate measures

for sustainable agricultural and livestock development, alongside eco-tourism potential, to enhance

livelihood opportunities for the local communities.

This document not only provides a Biodiversity Action Plan for entire GTCIIP area also provides a

framework for the emerging rakh-specific local conservation plans, which will include engagement of

custodian communities, conservation of flora and fauna of the area and its sustainable use of

ecosystem services at micro (rakh) level. The plan will, where necessary, consider impacts on the rakh’s

special qualities from outside its boundary as well as from within. This could be through wildlife

species migration, water flows or water use, economic activity or views to and from the area.

The BAP will be implemented primarily during the implementation of GTCIIP; however, the follow-up

actions will need to be undertaken by the Government of Punjab, FWFD and its district officials,

conservation organisations, the Irrigation Department, the communities and the private sector to

address broader aspects of biodiversity conservation.

1 GTCIIP Baseline Ecological Survey: Consolidated Report, 2020.


1


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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Context

1.1.1. Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Investment Programme

1. At the request of the Government of the Punjab, Pakistan (GoPb) the Asian Development

Bank has agreed to provide Transaction Technical Assistance (TRTA)2 for preparing the Greater Thal

Canal Irrigation Investment Programme (GTCIIP). The proposed investment program aims at

increasing the agricultural production in the Punjab province by developing a new seasonal irrigation

system, comprising of three stand-alone projects. The GTCIIP would transform the presently 704,000

hectare (ha) unproductive rainfed lands to irrigated lands. The system has been partially constructed

with infrastructure providing irrigation to approximately 144,000 ha of command area, while an

extension to the system was to be funded by the government; Choubara Branch Canal system for

119,000 ha approximately, which has, as of April 2019, now been included under the proposed ADB

investment program. The proposed ADB GTCIIP will support the construction of the remaining

command area irrigating about 560,000 ha including the provision of support for on-farm

development and management (Map 1).

2. The proposed GTC irrigation scheme will draw water from the existing Chashma-Jhelum Link

Canal (CJ Link Canal) which diverts water from the Indus River to the areas in the left bank of Indus

River and Jhelum River. Water allocation for the entire GTC irrigation scheme has been determined

and approved in 1991 under the Pakistan Water Apportionment Accord that sets water resources

allocation among the four provinces. The GTC irrigation scheme consists of: (i) 35 km long Main Canal

(MC) , (ii) the 65 km long Mankera Branch Canal (MBC) system that has been constructed by the Water

and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in 2010, but whose command areas have only been

partly developed by the GoPb; (iii) 73 km long Choubara Branch Canal (CBC) system that was

approved to be constructed by the GoPb financing in 2015 but has not been commenced and is now

included under the ADB-GTCIIP, and (iv) Dhingana Branch Canal (DBC) with the Mahmood Sub-

Branch Canal (MSBC) and Noorpur Branch Canal (NBC) systems that also have not been commenced

due to lack of immediate access to financing. ADB’s financing will be designed to complete the

construction of the entire scheme with command area development (CAD) support by applying a

phased-approach to financing and construction.

3. In April 2019, the GoPb has agreed that ADB’s financial support will include construction of

the CBC system (2020), and the DBC, MSBC and NBC systems (2021/2022 to 2024), and command

area development for the entire GTC scheme. Hence, the proposed first project to be financed by

ADB will include the construction of the CBC system, plus development of the MC, MBC and CBC

command areas, which is inclusive of the construction and/or rehabilitation of community

watercourses and the introduction of improved on-farm water management and agricultural practices.

4. The proposed investment program will construct the remaining branch canals, i.e. CBC, (73

km), DBC (91 km), MSBC (54 km) and NBC (58 km), and associated structures to provide reliable

irrigation water supply to about 560,000 ha of the land during the monsoon (Kharif) season (mid-April

to mid-October) and will provide on-farm command area development support for the entire GTC

irrigation scheme to enhance the on-farm and water management capacity of farmers.

2 TRTA 9458-PAK: Preparing the Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Investment Program.


3

Map 1: GTCIIP area


4

5. Landell Mills Ltd. (LML), UK has been commissioned by the Asian Development Bank to

provide Transaction Technical Assistance (TRTA) for the preparation of the GTCIIP. The objective is

to increase agriculture productivity in the province, particularly in the Thal desert. In the current phase,

the command areas of three subsystems of the GTC system namely, Main Canal, Mankera Branch

Canal, and the Choubara Branch Canal are being covered. The main improvement envisaged in the

former two subsystems is command area development (CAD), and deferred operation and

maintenance (O&M), while in the later subsystem three main activities are to be accomplished,

namely: (i) construction of the irrigation distribution system, (ii) command area development, and (iii)

resettlement of the affected population, located within the right of way of the canal(s), who will be

displaced, and relocation of private, public, and communal structures.

1.1.2. GTCIIP Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

6. The potential negative impacts caused by the GTCIIP implementation and canal operations

on the physical, biological and social environment of the project area, and the proposed mitigating

measures by the GTCIIP Environmental Impact Assessment Report (2020) are summarised in Table 1.

These measures are elaborated in the project Environmental Management Plan (EMP), which will be

appended to construction contracts.

Table 1: GTCIIP potential impacts and mitigation measures3

Potential Impact Mitigation Measure

Fragmentation and disturbance to biodiversity values

through bisection by canals and distributaries.

The technical feasibility of the

recommended redesign and

realignment of distributary canals as

described in Section 6.3 of the EIA to

minimize disturbance and impact to the

ecology of the Rakh areas will be further

investigated for technical feasibility and

consequences for water distribution.

In the cases where canals encroach on

Rakh areas, adequate and appropriate

loan funds will be directed towards

additional resources, expertise and

community capacity building for

conservation management of the

fragmented Rakh. This will be guided by

the preparation and implementation of

a Biodiversity Action Plan.

Loss of biodiversity values due to footprint of

construction activities and sites and disturbance from the

scale of activities.

Mitigation measures are set out in the

Construction Biodiversity

Management Plan (BMP), which covers

safeguards for wildlife and habitats

during construction. The BMP is part of

the project EMP.

The project involves permanent acquisition of various

categories of land, i.e. agricultural land, residential and

barren. This impact would be of high significance.

This impact can be mitigated by

ensuring compliance of Land

Acquisition Act, 1894, addressing

3 GTCIIP EIA Report, 2020.


5


community grievances on priority basis

and timely compensation to affectees.

Improper assessment of water availability and failure of

command area management.

Design works will ensure the proper

assessment of water availability.

During community consultations, local people raised their

concerns on fragmentation of land of many farmers on

both sides of proposed main.

Due consideration should be given by

design consultants, and where possible

design should be changed to avoid land

fragmentation. Bridge should be given

at appropriate locations of the canal in

consultation with community to avoid

Inter-Community fragmentation.

During operations, as this is a one-crop perennial system

(only using water during the Kharif season) than to obtain

enough income and make the project viable farmers will

also need to use groundwater to get two crops a year.

This can lower water table of the project area rapidly.

Additional groundwater monitoring

wells, a groundwater model, and a new

regulation (expected in 2020 under the

new Water Act to allow the government

to enforce it, oversee and to issue

groundwater abstraction licenses) have

been proposed.

Proposed project will also affect trees, and bushes

present in the right of way of the proposed canal.

The loss of tree removal should be

compensated by carrying out tree

plantation on large scale in accordance

with Tree Plantation Plan.

Air quality may decrease as a result of the project

interventions. Construction machinery, diesel generators

and project vehicles will release exhaust emissions

containing carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2),

oxides of nitrogen (NOX), and particulate matter (PM).

These emissions can deteriorate the ambient air quality in

the project site and along the road leading to it.

Furthermore, fuel combustion will release smoke

emissions.

A mitigation regime containing 11

stipulations is proposed for mitigation

of air quality deterioration.

Sources of noise during construction will be generators,

concrete batching plants etc. Increased noise and

vibration levels during construction activities can be a

source of nuisance for locals and a source of disturbance

to wildlife.

There are no sensitive receptors close

to the construction sites, settlements

are present at some distance.

Mitigation action has been proposed to

monitor and control emanation of high

noise. Timing the construction activities

in the vicinity of the nearby settlements

has been proposed to avoid impact on

the students and teachers.

It is expected that large quantities of solid waste

including domestic waste, food waste, sewage (waste

water), workshop waste, medical waste, packing waste,

debris from construction sites (excess aggregate, sand

etc.) and excavated material unsuitable for earth fill will

be generated during construction.

Mitigation measures have been

proposed considering the relevant

guidelines from IFC and location

specific considerations.


6


The GTC project will take approximately five years to

complete and during this time there will be increased

traffic within the project area as well as on the link roads

and other approach routes of the project area. Traffic

movement will interrupt the local vehicular and

pedestrian traffic disrupting travel to school of school

children on some routes during specific periods of peak

activities. Due to increased use of trucks and other

vehicles on the roads in the project area elderly people,

women and children will be more exposed to dangerous

situations, which may lead to traffic accidents and unrest.

A traffic management plan to be

prepared and implemented by the

contractor, inter alia, has been

proposed as mitigation.

The construction activities will involve operations which

pose risks to the health and safety of the contractor’s staff

as well as the surrounding communities.

Occupational health and safety issues to

be included in contraction specifications

and other location specific action has

been specified as mitigation.

Breaching of canal, distributaries and structures will threat

system sustainability.

Irrigation Department, Punjab to

monitor the system regularly; Liaise with

the communities to identify potential

weaknesses in the system that could

cause breaches.

Windblown soil can siIt up canal and distributaries and

may choke the Choubara Branch Canal, and distribution

system.

De-siIting of canal, distributaries should

be done at regular intervals in operation

phase. Tree windbreaks will be planted

along canals (and 2 years of

maintenance) in the Main Canal,

Mankera and Chaubara Branch Systems.

With additional area under cultivation, and with better

water availability for existing area, cropping intensity will

increase, resulting in an automatic increase of fertilisers

and pesticides use.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

practices should be adopted in

coordination with Agriculture

Department.

7. The EIA Report, including the project Environmental Management Plan (EMP), underlines the

need for the preparation and implementation of a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), which is the subject

of this document. The BAP will implement measures to enhance and sustain the conservation of

biodiversity values as an offset to biodiversity and habitat losses which cannot be avoided and to

increase the sustainability of conservation efforts.

8. The EIA/EMP also sets out the provisions of a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan,

based upon data in the GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report (2020)4, field inspections and consultation

with stakeholders, to take the following mitigation measures, which will be joint responsibility of

contractors, construction supervision consultants, and the Environment and Social Unit (ESU) of the

Project Management Office (PMO):

i. Construction management measures:

a. Construction site boundaries and site use;

b. Timing of construction (with respect to breeding seasons);

c. Construction site survey before work starts to identify areas to avoid; and


7

d. Limitations on noise, vehicle movements.

ii. Education and capacity building will cover:

a. Worker awareness, training and induction;

b. Domestic waste management;

c. Poaching patrols; and

d. Liaison and collaboration with FWFD.

9. The hierarchy of the EIA/EMP (including the Construction Biodiversity Management Plan) and

the Biodiversity Action Plan is illustrated in the following mitigation measures pyramid (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Mitigation measures hierarchy

Source: Adapted from Fischer, Thomas B. and Obaidullah Nadeem. 2014. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Course

Curriculum for Higher Education Institutions in Pakistan. Islamabad: IUCN Pakistan.

1.2. Biodiversity Action Plan

10. A Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) provides roadmap for managing biologically rich sites and

activities contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. BAP can include simple

measures on site management and conservation activities. Developing a BAP need not be a daunting

process; hence, the plans can be prepared for individual sites as well as for the ecosystem as a whole.

The Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) provides guidance in designing and implementing concrete

practices on sustainable use and conservation of biodiversity when growing and sourcing natural raw

materials. Therefore, BAP contributes to compliance with the conservation standards in supply chains

during the construction phase and to implement the conservation agenda in the biodiversity hotspots

during the operation and maintenance phase. It helps companies, suppliers, communities, civil society

and government departments to define and implement concrete measures to improve the

conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in the project area.

11. The totality of the life forms on earth is called biodiversity. It includes all the faunal and floral

species, ecosystems, and genetic material composition. Biodiversity and biological processes provide

services and benefits to the human beings in numerous ways, e.g., food, shelter, water filtration,

predation, nutrient recycling, soil formation, oxygen production, water purification, pollination and

symbiosis etc. On the other hand, the role of ecosystem services is also quite imperative in meeting

the basic needs of urban as well as rural inhabitants. So, any negative impact on the biodiversity may

affect the trade-offs between environment and development. Figure 2 shows the benefits of

biodiversity.

Avoid

Rectify

Minimise

Compensate

Enhance

Pri

ori

ty

Highest

Lowest

Avoid the potential impact

Decrease the spatial/temporal scale of

impact during design, construction etc.

Apply rehabilitation technique after the impact

has occurred

Offset the residual impact and compensate, as

appropriate

Apply measures to create new benefits

EIA/

EMP

BAP


8

Figure 2: Biodiversity

Reference: Adapted from The Bio-Diversity Information System of Europe (BISE)

1.2.1. Need and Importance of BAP for GTCIIP Area

12. This BAP for the Greater Thal Canal Irrigation Investment Programme (GTCIIP) area is a

roadmap for the protection of Thal’s natural systems, especially the protected rangelands (rakhs), and

guidance for the engagement of the stakeholders in conservation activities. It will help to plan,

manage and monitor the rakhs in Thal by putting the correct procedures in place to conserve the

biodiversity. It will also improve all stakeholder—community, line departments (especially FWFD),

NGOs and the private sector—relations and ensure their involvement in biodiversity improvement

and protection.

13. This BAP—developed based on the findings of the baseline ecological surveys in October

2019 and August 2020 (GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report4 available separately), available literature,

secondary sources of information and stakeholder consultations—outlines a ten-year path for effective

conservation of the identified hotspots within the GTCIIP area. It describes the baseline, challenges,

opportunities, goals, targets and measures, the actual work plan, and a monitoring and evaluation

system to assess the BAP’s efficiency as well as its effects on biodiversity.

14. The three priorities for action in this BAP include: engaging all stakeholders; building

ecosystem resilience in a changing climate; and getting measurable results aimed at addressing and

reducing the impacts of the threats. Given the key importance of habitat protection to biodiversity

conservation, most of the outcomes, targets and activities in this plan relate in some way to reducing

the negative impacts of human activities on habitat areas.



9

1.2.2. Biodiversity Protection: Challenges and Opportunities

15. Ecological sustainability is long entrenched national and sub-national policy commitment;

however, these commitments have not succeeded in stopping the biodiversity degradation. Major

challenges in Thal include policy failure, institutional inefficiency, habitat loss, degradation and

fragmentation, climate change, invasive species, unsustainable use and management of natural

resources and land use change. However, there also lie some opportunities which, if tapped

effectively, can help coping with these challenges. These challenges and opportunities are further

elaborated in the sections below.

1.2.2.1. Key Challenges

1.2.2.1.1. Policy Failure

16. Policy formation at the sub-national level awards scant attention to effects of development

on natural resources. Water, forest, agriculture and land related policies are key examples of this

situation. Lack of an effective system to record and delineate seasonal and perennial area of

biodiversity hotspots leads to land encroachment. The lack of a comprehensive policy exacerbates

the situation as no guidelines are present to direct the policy process in integrating biodiversity

related concerns. The same applies to other types of habitats.

1.2.2.1.2. Institutional Inefficiency

17. Lack of enforcement of conservation related legislation due to acute shortages of equipment

and physical resources is a core issue leading to deprivation of natural resources. This results in

continuation of harmful activities such as hunting of endangered species within the protected areas.

Similarly, extraction of fuel wood from government-owned forests/rakhs remains unchecked due to

insufficient staff and other physical resources. Inadequacy of training, skills and physical resources also

hinders the FWFD in formulating management plans, monitoring biodiversity and implementing in-

situ conservation measures. Additionally, the FWFD lacks experience in engaging the custodian

communities in protected areas management.

1.2.2.1.3. Habitat Loss, Degradation and Fragmentation

18. Plant and animal species are less resilient to external pressures when the ecological

communities, of which they are a part, shrink or when populations become isolated from each other.

Habitat loss and fragmentation affect the well-being and survival of individual populations as well as

entire species, and may affect the functioning of entire ecosystems. Direct causes of habitat loss

include change in the land use, degradation and fragmentation, clearing of native vegetation,

construction of irrigation networks (including Thal canal) and pollution of waterways.

Box 1: Qualities that make Thal’s biodiversity special

• Rakhs provide a sense of remoteness, wildness and tranquillity;

• A mosaic of habitats supporting a great diversity of wildlife including houbara;

• A deeply rural community closely linked to the land with strong local traditions and ways of

life;

• A farmed landscape with locally distinctive breeds;

• An exceptional rights of way network, with paths that are often rugged and providing

superb opportunities for walking, riding and cycling; and

• A landscape that may provide inspiration and enjoyment to visitors and residents alike.


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1.2.2.1.4. Agrochemical Contamination

19. The farmers make indiscriminate use of pesticides and insecticides to get better yield.

Number of insectivorous birds, small mammals and reptiles are greatly affected due to these

chemicals. The use of diesel pumps for water extraction leads to spillage of oil, which directly pollutes

surface and groundwater. The agriculture runoff poses a serious threat to aquatic fauna including fish

and aquatic birds. Unsustainable agricultural practices in the catchments destroy the natural habitat

of wildlife. Due to lack of awareness, the ecological damage and human dangers of chemical pollution

are also increasing manifold.

1.2.2.1.5. Climate Change

20. Climate change is another underlying cause for the deterioration of biodiversity in Thal desert.

If the trend continues the climate change would have significant impacts on the biodiversity of the

target area. The projections about climate change indicate that water availability and its quality,

especially in arid and semi-arid areas of the region, will decrease in future by 10-30%, while drought

will emerge as a common phenomenon with increased number or intensity. This situation would have

negative impacts on food security and natural resources, especially in the subsistence agro-pastoral

systems.

1.2.2.1.6. Erosion of Traditional Wisdom

21. Poverty, unsustainable resource use, population increase, and ignorance of indigenous

knowledge regarding wise use of resources have negative impacts on the biodiversity of the Thal area.

Moreover, issues of competition and conflicts between natural resources and human populations over

resource use have not been addressed adequately in planning procedures.5 In the past indigenous

resource management institutions, values, and myths were quite active to manage these resources on

sustainable basis. They were seen to hold the key to ecologically sustainable development. They had

direct long-term interests in the protection of natural treasures and their reinforcement. The

weakening or breakdown of these institutions has deepened the crises by exacerbating the natural

resource degradation process in their respective areas.

1.2.2.2. Key Opportunities

22. The GTCIIP itself offers the most promising opportunity to address some of these challenges.

Not only that GTCIIP will introduce ecologically safe implementation practices but will also provide a

roadmap for conservation of biodiversity and protection of fragile ecosystem in the form of BAP, and

supporting some of the proposed measures. This BAP provides an excellent opportunity to the key

stakeholders, especially the provincial irrigation and agriculture departments, and the Punjab FWFD,

to come forward and make coherent efforts for improving health of protected rangelands (rakhs) and

the biodiversity in the GTCIIP area.

23. Support for integrating conservation and development activities can help communities

promote development without compromising the integrity of ecosystems. Designing and

implementing economic alternatives such as agroforestry, ecotourism and improved resource

management can promote sustainable community economic development without threatening local

biodiversity. By working closely with government officials and other local stakeholders and support

for building governance capacity, skill sharing, technology transfer, training and education programs

are few opportunities under GTCIIP to increase the ability of government representatives to

implement the BAP effectively.

5 EU, DFID and IUCN. “Biodiversity – what is it, and why is it being lost?” Biodiversity in Development, Biodiversity Brief 19.


11

24. Many government and non-governmental development initiatives are being implemented, or

are in the pipeline, to make sure that the farmers take maximum advantage of the Greater Thal Canal.

These initiatives can be planned and executed in a way that the ecological resources are used

sustainably and biodiversity value of the area remains intact.

1.2.2.3. Amelioratory Measures

25. To avoid further fragmentation of the habitats and massive species loss in the rakhs of Thal,

the opportunity is to integrate the diverse regulations, public policies, and incentive mechanisms for

habitat protection and restoration and the various independent projects and programmes carried out

by governments and nongovernmental organisations into a single and comprehensive strategy for

establishing networks of sustainable landscapes throughout the Thal region.

26. Protected areas in Punjab lack sufficient resources for effective management. Establishing an

endowment fund for rakh areas management can be the most effective way to guarantee a long-term

revenue source for protected areas. Support for capacity-building of the staff would be another

opportunity to ensure effective watch and ward in the target area. In-kind contributions, such as patrol

vehicles and infrastructure for better management (observation posts, patrol routes, etc.) can also be

effective in increasing protected area management capacity. Stakeholder consultation and

partnerships will be critical in determining the resources needed for effective protected area

management and how those resources are used.

27. Support for scientific research and analysis of gathered data for assessing, monitoring and

protecting biodiversity can be addressed by supporting research and training in biodiversity-related

fields. Campaigns to save endangered species and efforts to protect flagship species, such as

Houbara, can be the key in protecting the entire ecosystem. Some of the challenges and amelioratory

measures are given in Table 2.

Table 2: Challenges and opportunities

Challenges Amelioratory Measures

Policy failure, institutional

inefficiency and lack of

resources

• Integrate the diverse regulations, public policies, and incentive

mechanisms

• Build capacity of line departments

• Establish an endowment fund, make financial contribution and

in-kind support for rakh protection

Important, threatened and

unprotected ecosystems or

species, climate change and

invasive species

• Sponsor campaign to protect ecosystem by using charismatic

and endangered flagship species

• Support conservation easements

• Promote climate change adaptation initiatives integrated with

conservation

• Adopt zero tolerance policy towards invasive species

Lack of government/scientific

capacity to study and manage

biodiversity

• Support scientific research and analysis

• Support technical capacity-building and training

• Support managerial capacity-building in government agencies

Lack of public awareness of

or involvement in

conservation

• Support environmental education and awareness building

• Support integrated conservation and development

Erosion of traditional wisdom • Reactivate traditional conservation values and management

systems


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13


14

2. INTRODUCTION TO THE AREA

2.1. Geographical Location and Climate of the Area

28. The GTCIIP area falls within the boundaries of Bhakkar, Layyah and Khushab districts of the

Punjab province and lies between longitudes 71°15’ and 72°15’ East and latitudes 30°30’ and 32°15”

North.6 The area is subtropical sandy desert spread over 306 km with its maximum breadth of 113

km. The tract is bound by the piedmont of the Salt Range in the north, the Indus River flood plains in

the west and Jhelum and Chenab River flood plains in the east. Geographically, the Thal Desert

resembles with the deserts of Cholistan and Thar. Main towns of Thal include Roda Thal, Mankera,

Hyderabad Thal, Dullewala, Piplan, Junju Sharif, Gohar Wala Kundiyan, Kot Azam, Saraye Muhajir,

Mehmood Shaheed Thal, Rang Pur, Jandan Wala, Mari Shah Sakhira, Noorpur Thal, and Muzaffargarh.

Figure 3: Temperatures in Bhakkar District (2009-2020)

Source: World Weather Online: Bhakkar Monthly Climate Averages (https://www.worldweatheronline.com/bhakkar-

weather-averages/punjab/pk.aspx). Accessed 3 Oct 2020.

29. The climate of the area varies from very hot in summers and too cold in winters with the

highest temperature of above 45°C in June and lowest up to 2°C in January (Figure 3). The area

receives only scanty rainfall, the average rainfall does not exceed 18.7 centimetres, which is mainly in

the monsoons (July-August). See Figure 4 and Figure 5 for average monthly rainfall, cloudy days and

humidity levels in Bhakkar District, which corresponds to Khushab and Layyah Districts as well. and It

is evident that there has been an overall declining trend in the frequency and quantity of rainfall in

the Thal districts over a period of several decades.



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Figure 4: Rainfall in Bhakkar District (2009-2020)



Figure 5: Clouds and humidity in Bhakkar District (2009-2020)



2.2. Socio-Economic Profile of the Area

30. The proposed project Thal Canal lies in the Khushab, Bhakkar and Layyah districts. The

population of Khushab, Bhakkar and Layyah districts according to 2017 censes is 1,281,299, 1,650,518


16

and 1,824,230, respectively. About 4.76 million people (based upon 2017 census) inhabit the

command area and their livelihoods depend directly or indirectly on the irrigation supplies of the Thal

Canal. Roughly 2 million people (based upon 2017 census) derive their livelihoods directly from the

irrigation supplies of the Canal.7

31. The majority of families in the area live in joint family system, since the sharing of resources is

beneficial in term of joint incomes, manpower (for agricultural practices) and basic amenities like

water, electricity, housing and food. About 95 percent population is Muslim, whereas five percent

consist of Christians and other minorities. There are many tribes in the desert namely; Syed, Khokhar,

Tiwana, Sial, Mammak, Bhachar, Baghoor, Rahdari, Jhammat, Cheenna (Jutt), Gahi, Aheer, Lashari,

Rana, Wagha’s and Awans etc. The locals of Thal basically speak ‘Seraiki’ but Punjabi is also spoken

by many in the desert.

32. Community, as main beneficiary, is vital and integral part or the stakeholder of all interventions

during implementation and post-implementation phases of GTCIIP. Socio-economic condition and

their organisation are important aspects to consider in relation to rangeland practices, agricultural

operations and biodiversity status. The most impact-pondering factor of the community is smallholder

farmers, which need special emphasis. As per GTCIIP EIA Report (2020), “there are 38,158 farms with

an average farm size of 3.1 ha in CBC command area while 48,886 farms with average farm size 3.14

ha in MBC and MC command areas. Thus, a total farms figure comes as 87,044. About 81-83% of

these farms (i.e. approx. 71,000 farms) are small farms of less than five hectares.” The quality and

productivity of these farms is low because of shifting sand dunes, natural calamities, and reliance on

single major crop of channa (gram).

33. Prior to 1947 under British colonial administration, the entire area of these districts was almost

desert. After the partition, the Government of Pakistan established the Thal Development Authority

(TDA) in 1949 with the objective of transforming large parts of Thal desert (measuring around 2.6

million ha) into agriculturally productive land.

34. During the consultative meetings, the participants acknowledged the importance of

education, and included it in priority needs of the village. Although people realise the importance of

education of their daughters, but they cannot manage it because of economic and cultural reasons as

well as difficult access to girls school in the area.

35. The major source of income for the people in the project area are agriculture (65%) and daily-

wage labour (30%). The remaining (5%) are engaged in miscellaneous employment, including

government and private jobs. The economically better-off families mostly belong to the agriculture

sector.

36. Livestock is the backbone of agricultural society and the third main source of income in the

project area. About 80 percent households own livestock having 1-3 animals per household with cow,

sheep and goat as the most common animals. Animal feed is available in the shape of green and dry

fodder. Some villages have community-owned (shamelaat) land, which is used as grazing land for their

farm animals. The rakhs (protected areas managed by FWFD) are being used as grazing lands for

livestock.

37. The groundwater from shallow wells across Thal area is of good quality and suitable for

drinking. The source of drinking water is ravine and small nullahs. Beside this, surface-wells and tube-

wells are also the source of drinking water for humans and livestock.



17

38. The agriculture at Thal is irrigated by canal, tube-wells and rain-fed. Major rabi and kharif

crops are:

• Rabi crops: Wheat, Barley, Vegetables, Gram, Fodder.

• Kharif crops: Fruits, Melons, Vegetables, Potato, Fodder, Onion

39. Despite the fact that Thal is an area in which no hunting should occur, it is a fact that poaching

does happen occasionally both of mammals, particularly hare, and birds, i.e., common quail, see-see,

houbara (rare) and waterfowls.

40. The education and health facilities in the area are far below the desired level. Education

disparity among population (male and female) and level of education is high. As a whole, around one-

third of the population (both male and female) has got schooling up to primary level, around 15% up

to middle and around 5% up the matriculation level. Around 45% of the population is illiterate.

41. Government hospitals are located in the main towns only, like Mankera, Choubara and

Noorpur, Basic Health Units (BHUs) are available at the Union Councils level, while antenatal services

are provided through Lady Health Visitors (LHVs). In parallel, hakeems provide traditional medicines

in the rural areas. In order to consult specialist physicians or surgeons, people have to visit the District

Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs) or private clinics in the cities.

42. The projects area is connected with the national grid and electricity is extended up to small

villages. Large villages and towns are connected through roads and transportation means.

43. Average per capita income is not sufficient to support the livelihoods. The variation in

employment opportunities at local level, nearby inland cities and abroad are the determinants of

income variation. All members of the family (male, female, young and old) act as labour (both on-farm

and off-farm) for various operations related to agriculture and livestock. The land-less people, or those

having unproductive land, seek employment in other areas or other farms or work as non-agricultural

labour for daily earnings. Sometimes daily earnings are part-time in nature. Otherwise, most of the

people are either self-employed or unemployed.

2.3. Landcover and Habitats

2.3.1. Sand Dunes

44. The Thal desert is chiefly characterised by its sand dunes, wind cyclones, abundant sunshine

and common drought prevalence. Underground water is usually brackish, unsuitable for drinking and

irrigation purposes. There is rampant occurrence of torrential, unpredictable and erratic rainfalls in

monsoon leaving no chance of infiltration of water for storage. Weather extremes have diminished

the vegetation cover over the sandy soil. Hill torrents, flood havoc and torrential rainfall have massively

devastated sandy soil. Wind cyclones have further augmented the erosion process. Organic matter in

soil is gradually diminishing, as is the micro flora and fauna. There is little vegetation evidenced and

the area is home to reptiles, mammals and birds. Human settlements occupy smaller areas of the

Greater Thal Sand Dune habitat and settlements are very scattered. The plant species include trees

like Jand (Prosopis cineraria), Wan (Salvadora oleoides), Karir (Capparis aphylla), Farash (Tamarix

aphylla), Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana), bushes and shrubs like Phog (Caligonum polygonoidies), Ak

(Calotropis procera), and various grasses. Gazelle antelope (Chinkara) thrived in Thal desert but now

is near extinction. However, this habitat is home to reptiles, small mammals and birds.


18

Map 2: Landcover in GTCIIP area


19

2.3.2. Agricultural Land

45. Some land area (farms) within the project area of MC, MBC and CBC (area not developed)

are being irrigated by groundwater that is being extracted by tube wells. These areas have high

greenery and high agricultural productivity compared to rainfed sandy lands. People have reasonable

to good livelihoods compared to those of the non-irrigated areas. The irrigated areas (irrigated

agriculture) host more wildlife than the sand dunes and sandy soil areas in the project area. The quality

of the groundwater varies from good within the MBC command area with groundwater aquifers of

both good quality and brackish water in the CBC command area. The expansion of human activities

in these areas in the form of agriculture, construction of infrastructure and expansion of populated

areas had negative impacts on the wildlife of the area. The main crop of Thal desert is gram (channa)

and its cultivation has been extended even to sand dunes. Among other crops are bajra, gawar, fodder

crops etc. Some areas of Thal desert are also affected by waterlogging due to seepage from Greater

Thal Canal. As the natural vegetation has been cleared to expand and combine agricultural plots, and

to develop infrastructure, the natural habitats have been disturbed and connectivity between the

remaining habitats has been disrupted. As a consequence, much of the native fauna has retreated to

areas which are less disturbed and less accessible to humans. Only those species, which have adapted

to this modified habitat, exist in the area and the species, such as wild boar, hare, jackal, porcupine

and fox, are rarely seen in the project area and its surroundings. Tamarix and Eucalyptus tree

plantations are quite common on irrigated lands and main source of their income. Linear plantations

also prevent crops and deposition of sand on to the farms from windblown sand.

2.3.3. Protected Areas

2.3.3.1. Protected Rangelands (Rakhs)

46. Rakhs are protected rangelands managed by the Range Management Division, Bhakkar of the

FWFD. These lands are classified as ‘wastelands’ as per record of the Revenue Department. These

areas are highly rich in biodiversity as compared to other habitat types of the project area due to less

human activities, controlled grazing and strict restrictions on hunting of wildlife. The FWFD staff are

stationed in these areas, and because of the FWFD’s rangeland management, fair to good vegetation

cover is maintained. More details are given in Chapter 6.

47. Majority of the inhabitants in these rakhs are pastoral. Livestock grazing is allowed under

permit and rotational grazing is practiced in order to improve and maintain good rangeland

conditions. Grazing fee is applied which depends upon the animal size. These grazing lands, wholly

or partially, support most of the livestock population of the area which produces beef, mutton, hides,

skins, wool, manure and other products for local consumption and export. The rangelands have largely

been depleted due to overuse. Some of the key range sites need special protection measures to

improve their ecological health. To improve range health, such areas need to be reseeded and

protected from grazing of herbivores.

2.3.3.2. Thal Game Reserve

48. In 1978, the Government of the Punjab notified an area of 713.06 km² of Thal Desert as a

game reserve under the Punjab Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management)

Act, 1974. Geographically, it includes all the rakh areas mentioned above as well as almost the entire

project area (Map 3). The Thal Game Reserve is listed in the World Database on Protected Areas

(WDPA) with ID 10644; however, it is not reported under any of the IUCN Management Category.

Despite being under the administrative control of the FWFD, it neither have a management plan nor

a dedicated management authority; hence, the management of the game reserve is sub-optimal. The

designation of the area as a game reserve mainly serves the purpose of controlled hunting of houbara


20

bustard and other wildlife by the permit holders. It does not put any restrictions, other than hunting

of the wildlife, on construction of infrastructure or development of land.

Map 3: Thal Game Reserve vis-à-vis the project area


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2.3.4. Habitat Change

49. The expansion of human activities in the area in the form of large scale agriculture,

construction of linear infrastructure and expansion of populated areas has had negative impacts on

habitats and wildlife of the area. As the natural vegetation has been cleared to enlarge and combine

agricultural plots, to establish/expand settlements, and to develop infrastructure, the natural habitats

have been lost and connectivity between the remaining habitats has been disrupted. As a

consequence, much of the native flora and fauna has retreated to areas which are less disturbed and

less accessible to humans. Only those species, which have adapted to this modified habitat, exist in

the area; and species such as wild boar, hare, jackal, porcupine and fox are rarely seen in the rakhs

and their surroundings.

50. The proposed GTCIIP canals will traverse through the areas of some rakhs, partially or fully.

Therefore, floral and faunal set-up of these rakhs are bound to be disturbed. Resting and breeding

places of all faunal species will be affected at least to some extent. Availability of irrigational water for

agricultural option will lead to transformation of unproductive to productive land and rangeland into

cropland. These risks need to be kept in mind for their alternate management options.

51. However, with appropriate management planning (of which this BAP is an integral part along

with the Environmental Management Plan), and eco-friendly implementation of GTCIIP allocating

sufficient human, technical and financial resources can accrue long-lasting benefits for biodiversity of

the area. It may result in improvement of degraded habitats and reversal of species extinction.

2.4. Criteria for Selection of an Ecologically Representative Site

52. Ratcliffe (1977)8 developed criteria for the selection of an ecologically representative site for

promoting conservation and protection. Following guidelines are derived from the criteria in order to

describe the Thal region under discussion.

2.4.1. Size

53. The overall size of any given site is very important, generally the larger the area of habitat the

more viable it is. However, It totally depends on the different sizes and points within each habitat. The

vast expanse of the Thal Desert is located between the Jhelum and Indus rivers near the Pothohar

Plateau, with a total length from north to south 190 miles, and a maximum breadth of 70 miles (110

km) and minimum breadth 20 miles. The desert covers the districts of Bhakkar, Khushab, Mianwali,

Layyah, Muzaffargarh as well as Jhang, from the left bank of the river Jhelum. Different habitats

hosting a range of biodiversity exist within such a large extent of the land, located in the Thal region.

2.4.2. Diversity

54. The Species diversity of the Thal area is relatively high due to the large variety of habitats

including desert, rakhs area, cultivated lands, riverine habitat and rural settlements. The highest

number of species is found at the cultivated lands and the rakhs along the desert. The major groups

among these are the larks, wheatears, babblers, sparrows, bulbuls, doves, herons, egrets, lapwings,

king fishers, francolins and Shikra, etc. Many other species including birds of prey, insect eating birds

such as Bee-eaters, Hoopoes, and seed eaters such as Pigeons and Doves, and birds with a more

varied diet such as White-eared Bulbuls, Sparrows, Raven and Shrikes. The fields with ripening grains

such as millet attract many seed eating birds including rock pigeons, doves, sparrows and others.

8 Ratcliffe, D.A. (1977). A Nature Conservation Review: Volume 1: The Selection of Biological Sites of National Importance

to Nature Conservation in Britain. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0-521-21159-X.


22

55. In general, the greater the diversity within the site, the better it is for wildlife. Some specific

features exist within the Thal region that includes riverine tract, desert region, natural forests (rakhs),

cultivated areas and uncultivated areas, and others. These diverse habitats are important for a wide

range of biodiversity. These create excellent edge effects, which enhance the potential of a rich

species diversity, which originates from all these mentioned habitats. This diversity of species and

habitat maintains the ecosystem healthy and ensures relationship of birds, insects and plants;

predator-prey interaction and the provision of variety of other ecosystem services.

2.4.3. Naturalness

56. This criterion is difficult to assess in any specific landscape. The sites, which are formed and

or maintained by largely natural processes, are more important than the modified ones or the artificial

habitats. The problem is that most of the Thal region has been influenced by human activity to a great

extent now during the last five years or so and have started converting large desert areas into

agricultural lands by installing irrigation/solar tube wells. They have started moving away from

traditional gram cultivation to other high value agriculture crops. However, still large tracts of deserts,

riverine tract and natural rakhs are available in the region, which are pristine to a great extent. Species

composition in an area also reflects its naturalness.

57. Recently exotic species have also been planted by the communities within these areas and

hence have helped in modification of the habitats. Desert vegetation, riverine vegetation and other

native trees planted in different zones contribute more towards naturalness than where these typical

species are poorly represented. The natural floral species found in the irrigated areas include Gaz or

Frash (Tamarix aphylla), Khaddar or Elephant Grass (Typha elephantina), Sarkanda or Bengal Cane

(Saccharum munja), Kai/Kans or Wild Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum), Kikar or Prickly Acacia

(Acacia nilotica indica), Shisham or Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia sissoo), Ber (Zizyphus nummilaria),

Mesquite (Prosopis juliflora), Jand (Prosopis cineraria), Khabbal or Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon),

and Bhan or Euphrates Poplar (Populus euphratica).

2.4.4. Rarity

58. This includes the rare habitats and rare species and can be considered part of the guidelines

for the selection of suitable sites. Introduced species and artificially created habitats are not included

as part of the Rarity guidelines but it says that if the rare species have become well established over

a considerable period of time, then these may be considered. This is not the case in the Thal region.

However, the region offers habitat to a rare species, which is Houbara bustard. This species has a

specific habitat requirement within the desert ecosystem and is categorised as Vulnerable (VU). A

range of other species does exist in the region but these are in abundance and the populations are

categorised as Least Concern according to IUCN Red List, except the Chinkara, which has been

reported extinct locally for almost four decades. Chinkara needs to be brought back to its natural

habitat, which will definitely further enhance the conservation value of the region.

2.4.5. Fragility

59. This is recognised as the degree of sensitivity of habitats, communities and species to

environmental change. Climate Change has a significant impact on Pakistan’s biodiversity, as small

mammals, reptiles, invertebrates and birds are largely affected due to this, e.g., habitat features

change which impacts on their breeding biology, behaviour, growth patterns and their local migration

patterns. Pakistan has been on the top ten most affected countries due to climate change and this

has already impacted the pristine habitats of different wildlife species. In addition, anthropogenic

influence such as encroachment and modification in the habitats of wild animals has further

aggravated the situation in the Thal region.


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2.4.6. Typicality

60. The typicality is described as “typical habitats with characteristic species assemblages are

important in their own right, and that an absence of rare species should not cause a habitat to be

dismissed”. The desert ecosystem of the Thal region is a typical example where relatively low

weightage is given to the rare species, concentrating on the characteristic components of each habitat

category especially the desert ecosystem. It means that if Chinkara is not present or extinct from the

area, one cannot undermine the important ecological role the desert habitat play in hosting rare

species. Similarly, the population of Houbara bustard in the Thal area is totally dependent on the rare

habitat requirements but if the species is hunted or influenced heavily due to human interventions,

the habitat features and characteristics are still there and are equally important for the species to

come back or for reintroduction. In this case, the presence of one species or habitat does not affect

the grade that is given to a particular area.


24


25

3. FLORAL MANAGEMENT

61. All the Tehsils of project area are almost barren and consists of some natural vegetation and

sand dunes however, the Mankera and Choubara Tehsils are surrounded by nearby ‘rakhs’ or

Rangeland under the control of Forest Department of the Government of Punjab, which is located in

Bhakkar and Layyah districts. The gross area of these rakhs under Range Management Division

Bhakkar of Forest Department is 140,577 acres and the economy of the areas is mainly pastoral. The

rangelands have largely been depleted due to overuse due to which the carrying capacity of grazing

areas has been drastically reduced. The unsustainable use of the barani or rainfed lands and ever

expanding human population and their dependence has exhausted and resource further adds to the

deterioration process.

3.1. Natural Flora

62. The vegetation is mainly comprised of xeromorphic species, which are adapted to a variety

of environmental stresses, particularly to extreme aridity, high salinity, high temperature and low

nutrient availability (Naz et al., 2010). However, soil topography, composition and other physio-

chemical characteristics play an important role in the distribution of plant species and community

structure. The natural flora of the project area can be divided into two zones: that occupying the canal

water receiving areas, and that occupying the higher surrounding sand dune areas having sand dunes.

The natural floral species found in the irrigated areas include Gaz or Frash (Tamarix aphylla), Khaddar

or Elephant Grass (Typha elephantina), Sarkanda or Bengal Cane (Saccharum munja), Kai/Kans or Wild

Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum), Kikar or Prickly Acacia (Acacia nilotica indica), Shisham or Indian

Rosewood (Dalbergia sissoo), Ber (Zizyphus nummilaria), Mesquite (Prosopis juliflora), Jand (Prosopis

cineraria), Khabbal or Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon), and Bhan or Euphrates Poplar (Populus

euphratica).

63. The natural floral species found in areas outside the canal tract include Jandi or Chhenkur

(Prosopis cineraria), Karir (Capparis aphyla), Vann (Salvadora oleoides), Peeloo (Salvadora persica),

Kikar (Acacia nilotica indica), Kikar (Acacia Senegal) Lana or Bush Seepweed (Suaeda fructicosa), Lani

(Salsola foetida), and Khabbal or Bermuda grass (Cynodon doctylon). Detail of natural flora are

provided in the GTCIIP Baseline Ecological Survey Report.9

64. The alien species Prosopis juliflora and Prosopis glandulosa (Mesquite) were found invading

most of the localities in the Project Area. This is a serious threat for the native vegetation of the area,

as these species may out compete and replace the natural indigenous flora in near future, as has

already happened in many other parts of Pakistan.

3.2. Scientific Research

65. Thal has sandy soil with sand dunes and patches of wild vegetation in interdunal and low-lying

areas. Sand dunes are used for Chickpeas cultivation. Houbara arrives in Thal after mid-November,

stays there and enjoys the chickpeas crop. Most of Thal is characteristic wild vegetation. Prominent

species of wild vegetation include: Kikar (Acacia nilotica, A. Jacquemontii), Jand (Prosopis cineraria),

Frash (Tamarix aphylla) and Ber (Zizyphus jujuba) among trees, Phog (Calligonum polygonoides), Lana

(Haloxylon salicornicum), Khar (Haloxylon recurvum), Ak (Calotropis procera), Karir (Capparis spp.)

among shrubs, and different species of grasses. Cultivated mustard, chickpea and pulses are special

attraction for Houbara.



26

66. Many scientists like Ilyas et al., (2013), Qureshi et al., (2011a & 2011b), Yalcin et al., (2011),

Fazal et al., (2010), Qureshi & Bhatti (2010), Saima et al., (2009, 2010), Nazar et al., (2008), Qureshi

(2008), Bhatti et al., (1999) have contributed comprehensive checklists to the local floras that provide

baseline for further studies. Monsi & Khan (1960) reported the natural vegetation of few sites of Thal

Desert. Their work serves as baseline information about the vegetation of the study area, which helps

further ecological investigations and conservation measures.

3.3. Protection of Flora

3.3.1. Habitat Management

67. Each animal species on the rakhs has its own peculiar habitat preferences. Inadequate

protection against poaching and habitat loss in the rakhs have rendered a large tract of habitat

unavailable to wildlife. This area remained subject to a heavy onslaught by the locals for the fuel wood

and livestock grazing. Mostly the vegetation cover is highly degraded. For the purposes of proposals

made for the Biodiversity Action Plan, specific habitat management recommendations will focus on

the Houbara Bustard, which is the key species in the rakhs. Habitat use by Houbara in rakhs is

principally limited due to inadequate protection against poaching and habitat loss in most of the rakhs

and scarcity of drinking water. This does not necessarily imply that the recommendations will not apply

to other species. In fact, it could be argued that the Houbara may be regarded as an umbrella species

- habitat management that favours the survival of the Houbara is most likely to positively affect

fortunes of a whole range of other wildlife.

3.3.2. Carrying Capacity

68. The main profession of the local communities (at household level, whether owner of

land/livestock or not) is grazing of livestock. The system of grazing the animals is based on rotational

grazing and permits (issued by the Range Management officials by receiving grazing fee according to

animal size) with the target of keeping rangeland’s health in fair to good conditions. These rangelands

are cause of variety of products like beef, mutton, hides, skins, wool, manure and others for local

consumption and export by dint of providing forage to the livestock. Grazing permission, excessively

more than carrying capacity, has introduced large-scale retrogression. Again, these are the local

communities, who can revert the retrogression into progression, if they are convinced, trained, and

involved in major operation of reseeding, replanting, and optimum grazing.

69. All the habitats identified in rakhs include a considerable range of plant species used as food

by Houbara. The carrying capacity of a given habitat refers to the number of animals it can sustain on

a year-round basis without accruing any adverse ecological impact. Animal populations and habitat

productivity are naturally inter-related and control each other in a cyclic manner. When the animal

populations exceed a certain threshold, the habitat starts deteriorating with a resultant decline in the

animal population. When the animal population reaches a certain minimum threshold the habitat

productivity starts increasing, creating conditions for a corresponding increase in animal populations.

This natural process repeats itself periodically and is a characteristic of the environment of rakhs.

70. Fluctuations in carrying capacity require either the implementation of habitat improvement

practices or the adjusting of the number of animals according to the estimated carrying capacity.

Neither of these practices are acceptable on a protected area. It is, however, recommended that

during the implementation phase of the BAP, research studies on these aspects be conducted by

experts so that enough scientific information is accumulated for future requirements.


27

3.3.3. Suitability of Habitat

71. This is a long-term initiative that integrates the habitat requirements of key species to

construct a habitat suitability index model. The latter is a most useful tool for any progressive wildlife

management plan. Studies of individual species should take into account the need to accumulate data

on a common basis with other investigations. The use of GPS receivers and storage of data in a GIS

are useful adjuncts to such a process.

3.3.4. Re-Introduction of Species

72. Historically rakhs were also inhabited by Chinkara . This species, however, became extinct few

decades ago. The possible causes of the extinction of Chinkara are not well documented but the most

commonly advocated reason is given as illegal hunting. However, the condition of Chinkara habitat

should be reassessed after three years and the effectiveness of protection should be reviewed on the

basis of the observations made.

3.3.5. Invasive Species of Range Vegetation

73. The alien species Prosopis juliflora and Prospis glandulosa (Mesquite) were found invading

most of the localities in the Project Area. This is a serious threat for the native vegetation of the area,

as these species may out compete and replace the natural indigenous flora in near future, as has

already happened in many other parts of Pakistan.

3.3.6. Control of Feral, Exotic and Invasive Species

74. Several exotic species of plants such as Eucalyptus and Mesquite have mistakenly been

introduced into the rakhs in the past. First, the practice of planting exotic species should be actively

discouraged because it is against the basic principles of protected area management. Secondly, a

programme for the removal of exotic biota should be introduced, concentrating initially on the more

invasive species. No feral domestic animals like dogs or cats should be tolerated and a programme

from their systematic eradication should be introduced.

3.3.7. Introduction of Improved Peripheral Rangeland Management Practices

75. Range management and range improvement practices should be adopted for the rangelands

on the periphery of the rakhs as an incentive for local communities. These initiatives should involve

enhancement through grazing management, reseeding, soil and water conservation techniques, etc.

As the magnitude of this intervention cannot be assessed at this stage because it is largely dependent

on custodian community participation, the BAP should provide a lump sum amount for this purpose.

3.3.8. Complete Exclusion of Domestic Livestock From the Rakhs

76. Livestock grazing in the rakhs should normally be prohibited on the understanding that

livestock compete with wildlife for the food resources of the habitat. An important consideration that

is likely to be overlooked is that livestock may transmit diseases to the wildlife species. The likelihood

of transmission of diseases from livestock to wildlife warrants the complete exclusion of livestock from

the rakhs.

3.3.9. Precautions Against Accidental Grassland Fires

77. The grasslands are inherently susceptible to fire. Although grass fires are a natural

phenomenon, it is important that artificially set fires be limited to an absolute minimum. The risk of

accidental fires may be expected to increase with the influx of additional visitors. It is therefore


28

recommended that the FWFD staff be trained in firefighting techniques, that adequate fire-breaks be

prepared, and that rakhs acquires proper firefighting equipment.


29


30

4. FAUNA MANAGEMENT

4.1. Avifauna

78. Avifauna is a significant part of the ecosystem playing different roles as predators,10

pollinators,11 scavengers12 and bio-indicators of different kind of environmental monitoring13,14

ecosystem engineering15 and cultural and economic uses16. Birds are the most important component

of any living system and play a key role in the interlocking web of nature. They are the biological

indicators and the ecological pyramid of an ecosystem. They are also indicators of the health of our

planet, a sort of “ecological litmus paper”. Because of their furious pace of living, they reflect changes

in the environment. If they are removed, the balance of nature would be drastically upset. At one end,

they prey upon insects and other invertebrates thus regulating the population of these animals and

on the other hand, are also a major source of food for other carnivore and omnivore species (birds

and mammals including humans). Their position in the ecological niche is so vulnerable that the

survival and collapse of the whole energy cycle depends upon the presence and absence of birds.

Birds are also important component of most wetland ecosystems since they play an important role in

the control of agricultural pests, whilst some species are considered pests of certain crops. They are

also the most visible of animals usually observed around wetland, making them a potential people-

puller for eco-tourism.

79. Birds are also important link in the food chain and food web. Large number of birds is

voracious feeder of a great variety of insects and thus, they constitute one of the most effective natural

checks upon insect numbers. If insect population remains unchecked in a biological system the extent

of damage is hard to estimate. Hoopoes, mynas, crows, bulbuls, flycatchers, wagtails, pipits,

accentors, redstarts chats, warblers and sparrows are well known destroyer of insects. The chemicals

used as weedicides, insecticides, rodenticides and pesticides accumulate in the bodies of insects,

which are taken by smaller birds like house sparrow, common mynas and larks, which are then eaten

by birds of prey. In this way analysis of the bodies of larger birds of prey depicts the overall health of

the food chain. Birds of prey, kites, buzzards, owls and shikra play an important role in minimizing the

population of rodent pests (rats and mice) and are used as Biological control agents. They also

perform ‘Sanitation effect’ in the ecosystems i.e. they generally predate on the sick and weaker

individuals thus making the prey populations stronger and healthier.

4.1.1. Avian Diversity

80. Five new species were recorded during the second ecological survey conducted in August

2020 whereas the remaining 91 species were the same which were observed during the previous

survey conducted on October 2019. They are 0.75% (n=05) of all the (n=668) resident and migratory

bird species reported in Roberts 1991; 1992. Of total five observed bird species, (n=02) is summer

10 Brown, J. S. and Kotler, B. P. (2004). Hazardous duty pay and the foraging cost of predation. Ecology Letters, 7(10), 999-

1014.

11 Proctor, M., Yeo, P. and Lack, A. (1996). The natural history of pollination. Timber Press Portland Google Scholar.

12 Pain, D.J., Cunningham, A.A., Donald, P.F., Duckworth, J.W., Houston, D.C., Katzner, T., Parry-Jones, J., Poole, C.,

Prakash, V., Round, P. and Timmins, R. (2003). Causes and effects of temporospatial declines of Gyps vultures in Asia.

Conserv. Biol.17(3), 661–671.

13 Eriksson, M. O. (1987). Some effects of freshwater acidification on birds in Sweden. The Value of Birds, 183-90.

14 Bryce, S. A., Hughes, R. M. and Kaufmann, P. R. (2002). Development of a bird integrity index: using bird assemblages as

indicators of riparian condition. Environmental Management, 30(2), 294-310.

15 Sekercioglu, C. H. (2006). Increasing awareness of avian ecological function. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 21(8), 464-471.

16 Diamond, A. W. and Filion, F. L. Eds. (1987). The Value of Birds. ICBP Technical Publication 6. Cambridge: International

Council for Bird Preservation.


31

breeder and resident, (n=01) winter visitor and summer breeder, while (n=02) is year round resident

in the country. All these five species are insectivorous in food habits and commonly found in the area

and also included as least concern in the IUCN red list criterion (2019.2). The threatened avian species

are given in Table 3 while detailed data on avifauna found in the project area is available in GTCIIP

Ecological Survey Report (2020).17

Table 3: Threatened avifauna species

Common Name Scientific Name Occurrence in Country Red List Criteria

Tawny eagle Aquila rapax Resident VU

Asian houbara bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii Winter visitors VU

Saker falcon Falco cherrug Winter visitor EN

Laggar falcon Falco jugger Resident NT

Source: GTCIIP Baseline Ecological Survey: Consolidated Report, 2020.

Notes: EN = Endangered, NT = Near Threatened, VU = Vulnerable.

81. Apart from these, a total of 91 species of resident and migratory birds were observed during

the study survey October 2019. They are 13.62% (n=91) of all the (n=668) resident and migratory bird

species reported in Roberts 1991; 1992. Of total 91 observed bird species, 71.43% (n=45) are

resident, 10.99% (n=10) winter visitor, 8.79% (n=08) winter visitor and summer breeder, 3.29% (n=03)

passage migrants and irregular year round visitors, 3. 29 % (n=03) summer breeders, passage migrants

and regular year round visitors, 1.09% (n=01) summer breeders and 1.09% (n=01) winter visitors

passage migrants and year round visitors in the country. Regarding the feeding habits, of the total 91

bird species, 35.16% (n=32) are insectivorous, 34.09% (n=31) are carnivorous, 17.58% (n=16) are

omnivorous, 9.89% (n=) are omnivorous and 3.30% (n=03) are fructivorous. Concerning the status of

species derived from Roberts (1991; 02), of the total 91 species, 43.96% (n=40) are common, 32.97%

(n=30) are abundant, 13.18% (n=12) are frequent, 5.49% (n=05) are scarce, 3.30% (n=03) are very

abundant and 1.09% (n=01) are rare. According to the global IUCN (2019.2) Red List criteria, of total

91 bird species, 95.60% (n=87) are Least Concern, 1.09% (n=01) are Endangered, 2.20% (n=02) are

vulnerable and1.09% (n=01) are Near-Threatened. Similarly, of the total 91 species, 41.76% (n=38)

are the species of which global population trend is stable, 28.57% (n=26) are species of which

population trend is decreasing, 20.88% (n=19) are of which population trend is increasing 8.79%

(n=08) are the species of which the population trend is unknown.

4.1.2. Houbara Bustard: A Special Case

82. The global population of Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) was estimated at 78,960

- 97,000 individuals in 2014. It must be emphasised, however, that accurately establishing the global

population is extremely challenging, and this figure should be treated as a tentative ‘best possible

estimate’. The population is expected to fall within 50,000 - 99,999 individuals, which is assumed to

equate to ca. 33,000 - 67,000 mature individuals. The population is regarded as declining by 30-49%

over a three-generation (20-year) window, stretching from the past into the future. Overexploitation

remains the foremost threat to the species, primarily as a result of unsustainable levels of hunting and

poaching.18


18 BirdLife International. 2017. Chlamydotis macqueenii (amended version of assessment). The IUCN Red List of Threatened

Species 2017:e.T22733562A118585210. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T22733562A118585210.en.

Downloaded on 01 February 2018.


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4.1.2.1. Conservation Status

83. Chlamydotis macqueenii, commonly known as the Asian Houbara bustard (hereafter

‘Houbara’), is listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of threatened species. It is also listed in

Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

(CITES) and Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

(CMS), pertaining to species that are vulnerable to hunting and poaching. Appendix I of CITES lists

those wildlife species that are threatened with extinction and prohibits their international trade in any

form. CITES allows limited non-commercial trade of Appendix I listed species under exceptional

circumstances such as for scientific research. In these exceptional cases, trade may take place

provided it is authorised by the granting of both import and export permits. Appendix II of the CMS

lists those migratory species that have an unfavourable conservation status and that require

international agreements to ensure their conservation and management. Pakistan is a signatory/ party

to both aforementioned international conventions.

4.1.2.2. Distribution

84. The contemporary range of Houbara extends from Egypt east of the Nile through Israel,

Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, U.A.E., Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Syria, Iraq, Iran,

Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan,

Russia and Mongolia to China, with unconfirmed reports from Azerbaijan and Turkey. Disjointed and

highly fragmented resident populations exist across the Middle East into Pakistan, most notably in

Iran, Egypt and Israel. Northern populations are migratory and winter in southern areas. Those from

western Kazakhstan mainly winter around the Iraq-Iran border, while those from central and eastern

Kazakhstan winter in Afghanistan, Balochistan in Pakistan, and a few reaching Thar Desert and

southern Iran as well. Wintering grounds for Chinese Houbara bustard populations are on the eastern

edge of Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan and in Cholistan.

4.1.2.3. Global Population and Trend

85. The global population of Houbara has been estimated to be between 78,960 and 97,000

individuals in 2014. It must be emphasised, however, that accurately establishing the global

population is extremely challenging, and this figure should be treated as a tentative ‘best estimate’.

The population is therefore expected to fall within the population band for 50,000 - 99,999 individuals,

which is assumed to equate to ca. 33,000 - 67,000 mature individuals. The population is estimated

and projected to be declining by 30-49% over a three-generation (20-year) window, stretching from

the past into the future. Overexploitation remains the foremost threat to the species, primarily as a

result of unsustainable levels of hunting and poaching. The wintering population in Punjab has been

estimated at 4,854–6,270 individuals, and it is possible that the total population in Pakistan exceeds

25,000. Return migration begins in early February, and by the second week of March the majority of

migrants have departed the country. A small and declining resident population persists in western

Baluchistan, mainly in the Chagai and Kharan districts. This population is believed to have declined

significantly since the 1980s and fewer than 100 individuals may remain.

4.1.2.4. Habitat

86. Wintering birds reach Pakistan via Afghanistan, arriving from the second half of September

through to the end of the year, with a peak from mid-October to mid-November. The wintering range

extends across most of Balochistan, Sindh and southern and western Punjab. The individuals wintering

in western Balochistan typically originate from central Kazakhstan, whilst those wintering further east

in Punjab’s Cholistan Desert tend to come from the Mongolian Plateau.


33

87. A research was carried out to assess the existing population of Houbara in the eastern

Baluchistan province of Pakistan, in January and February of 2013 and 2014. It was found out that

maximum numbers of Houbaras were observed near shrubs and grasses viz 57% and 40%. This was

followed by barren lands (26% & 40%), water bodies (14% & 11%) and rocks/mountains (3% & 9%)

respectively in the year 2013 and 2014. The Pearson’s correlation co-efficient (r=0.8292) shows a

strong correlation, which means that Houbara prefers vegetation grounds (shrubs & grasses) within

its natural habitat.

4.1.2.5. Biology

4.1.2.5.1. Taxonomic status

88. Taxonomists recognise three subspecies of Houbara: C. u. macqueenii in the deserts of Russia,

Asia and the Middle East; C. u. undulata in North Africa; and C. u. fuertaventurae in the eastern Canary

Islands (Collar and Goriup, 1983).

4.1.2.5.2. Breeding

89. Like other bustards, this species has a flamboyant display raising the white feathers of the

head and neck and withdrawing the head. Two to four eggs are laid on the ground. It hardly uses its

voice. Both sexes tend to be solitary during the breeding season and only come together for mating.

The males are probably polygynous and do not take part in rearing the young (Collins 1984). Courtship

takes place in December–March and consists of the male ruffling his head and neck feathers while

moving over a distance of about 100–200 m in a straight line or circle. The female lays two or three

eggs between February and April in a small scrape she makes on the ground. The chicks are nidifugous

and follow the female after hatching

4.1.2.5.3. Feed

90. This species is omnivorous, taking seeds, insects and other small creatures.

4.1.2.6. Threats and Issues

• Increase in human population

• Developing infrastructures

• Habitat loss in critical areas

• Disturbance and habitat change due to tourism

• Abandonment of traditional agriculture

• Overgrazing

• Illegal hunting

• Desertification and climatic factors

4.1.2.7. Recommendations

91. Keeping in view the vulnerable IUCN Red List status of the Houbara and threats faced by the

species in its entire range in general and in Pakistan in particular, WWF-Pakistan proposes the

following steps to maintain the population:

i. Population surveys following standard census protocols must be conducted on an annual basis

with the involvement of relevant stakeholders to determine the population status and trends

of the species in the country. The survey results should be published in peer-reviewed journals

to establish the reliability of the data.

ii. Controlled hunting of the Houbara should only be allowed and a bag limit should only be

determined once the information is available as mentioned in Section 4.1.2.


34

iii. The Foreign Office (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) should seek guidance from the Ministry of

Climate Change (national CITES management authority) before issuing hunting permits to

foreign dignitaries to ensure compliance with the Pakistan Trade Control of Wild Fauna and

Flora Act 2012 and provincial wildlife legislation.

iv. Strict measures should be taken to control poaching, hunting and destruction of the /Houbara

habitat with the involvement of communities.

v. The breeding populations of Houbaras in Pakistan should be efficiently protected.

vi. The Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department should create additional positions for staff, specific

for management and implementation of the Houbara bustard action plan.

vii. Training and capacity building of relevant stakeholders and awareness campaigns about the

conservation of the Houbara should be carried out.

viii. Construction of the canal and distributaries from the GTC and development of agricultural

lands in the area will take two or three decades further. Meanwhile, there is time to do

legislations to specify the area as habitat for Houbara Bustard, as a Game Reserve.

ix. The existing wildlife laws will be improved and enforced through the Punjab Wildlife and Parks

Department.

4.2. Mammals

92. In the irrigated and rainfed sand dunes, it is observed that Asiatic jackal, Red fox, Jungle cat,

Indian porcupine, and hare are commonly found in the project area with good population status.

Monitor lizard is also found in this region. However, other prominent large mammal species including

Chinkara were absent from the area.

93. During FGDs especially with the old aged local hunters, they claimed that Chinkara was found

in abundance in the area and were available in the area till 1980’s. Due to over exploitation of wildlife

through unrestricted and illegal hunting, habitat loss and increase in human population, Chinkara has

vanished from the area.

94. None of the observed species from the project area is categorised as Endangered,

Threatened or Vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List, but still these species play a vital role in

balancing the overall health of the desert ecosystem. The large mammals found in GTCIIP area are

mentioned in Table 4.

Table 4: List of large mammals in Thal

S. # Common Name Local Name Scientific Name IUCN Red List Status

1. Indian Porcupine Saye/ Kharpusht Hystrix indica Least Concern (LC)

2. Red Fox Loomarh Vulpes vulpes Least Concern (LC)

3. Hare Khargoosh Lepus nigricollis Least Concern (LC)

4. Jungle Cat Jangli billi Felis chaus Least Concern (LC) decreasing

5. Asiatic Jackal Geedarh Canis aureus Least Concern (LC) increasing

6. Chinkara Chinkara Gazella bennettii Population is Good; but Extinct

in Mankera tehsil, Bhakkar

4.3. Amphibians, Reptiles and Invertebrates

95. Diurnal and nocturnal surveys were conducted, and different observation methods were

employed in the field to determine the presence of amphibians and reptiles. During the October 2019


35

survey, 11 species of small mammals, two species of amphibian and 10 species of reptiles were

recorded from the project area, including Indian gerbil (Tatera indica), Sindh rice rat (Bandicota

bengalensis), house mouse (Mus musculus), house rat (Rattus rattus), house shrew (Suncus murinus)

and Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica). During the field visits, one freshly dead porcupine killed

by the people was also found on the road while small Indian mongoose and two palm squirrels

(Funambulus pennantii) were found on an Acacia tree. The results of the survey have been summarised

in a separate report. Most of the field activities were centred at crop land, canal bank and sand dunes

sites. This zone has great potential for biodiversity. Out of 11 small mammal species, seven were

granivore, one was herbivore while two species were insectivorous. Similarly, nine species of small

mammals were nocturnal and two were diurnal. Indian gerbil, field mouse, house rat, house shrew and

hedgehog (Paraechinus micropus) were observed in the project area while faecal material and spines

of porcupine were also observed. During the August 2020 survey, four new species of reptiles (Thal

mole skink, Smooth spectacled lacerta, White-spotted wolf snake and Desert monitor) were recorded

from the study area while black cobra was not spotted.

96. Of the species found during the ecological surveys, only Common river turtle (Hardella thurjii)

has vulnerable status on IUCN Red List. The detailed data on small mammals, amphibians and reptiles

found in the project area is available in GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report (2020).19 The most abundant

species found in the GTCIIP area are Tree lizard (19% dominance), Indus Valley toad, Blue tail sand

lizard and Bengal Monitor lizard (15% dominance). It indicates that the habitat and environment

condition is favourable for them to survive. Other dominant species included 3-toed sand swimmer

and Afghan Ground agama (5%), Bull frog and Chain sand boa (4%), and Brown river turtle and

Common river turtle (2%).

97. The common fish species reported in the area include Mahseer (Tormacrolepis), Khaga/Thaila

or Catla (Catla catla), Mori/Morakhi or Mrigal Carp (Cirrhinus mrigala), Gulfam or Common Carp

(Cyprinus carpio), Dahee/Kalbano or Orange Fin Labeo (Labeo calbasu), Raho, Rohu or Dumbra

(Labeo rohita), Singhari or Long-whiskered Catfish (Mystus Orteohugrw), Bachuwa or River Catfish

(Clupisoma garua), Mullee or Wallago Freshwater Shark (Wallago attu), Oereochrimis nIloticus

(Tilapia), Mystus bilikri, Oereochrimis aureus (Tilapia), Channa punctatus (Saul), Channa maurulius

(Saul), Mystus seenghala (seengharee), Punctius ticto, Punctius Sarana, Punctius sophor, Silver carp

(Hypolphthalimicthys moilitrix), Rita rita (Khaga) and Bagarius bagarius.

98. Fish populations are highly dependent upon the characteristics of their aquatic habitat which

supports their biological functions. The construction of a canals on a river can block or delay upstream

fish migration and thus contribute to the decline and even the extinction of species that depend on

longitudinal movements along the stream continuum during certain phases of their life cycle. The

building of a canals generally has a major impact on fish populations: migrations and other fish

movements can be stopped or delayed, the quality, quantity and accessibility of their habitat, which

plays an important role in population sustainability, can be affected. Changes in discharge regime or

water quality can also have indirect effects upon fish species and populations. Increased upstream

and downstream predation on migratory fish is also linked to dams/canals—fish migration being

delayed, and the population being concentrated due to the presence of the dam; hence, the habitat

becoming more favourable to certain predatory species. Water pollution, destruction or degradation

of habitat, and water-flow modification are among the major threats to freshwater biodiversity. The

canal will likely lead to increased water pollution (through construction works) and cause significant

alteration of habitat along its route. Further, destruction of habitats along the route will affect

populations of numerous species, possibly posing a risk to aquatic biodiversity in these areas.



36

4.4. Scientific Research

99. Riaz et. al., 2019 assessed the avian diversity of the Thal desert adjacent to Layyah and

Bhakkar riverine track and recorded the status of resident and migratory birds. The most abundant

species were House Crow Corvus splendens, House Sparrow Passer domesticus, Common Myna

Acridotheres tristis and Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris. Two species i.e. Houbara or McQueen's

Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii and Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus were recorded

rare. Potential threats to the avian diversity of the area are hunting, habitat loss, and pollution.20

Mahboob (2005) studied the avifauna of the Thal desert and Head Trimmu and reported 89 species

of birds belonging to 68 genera, 39 families and 15 orders. Among these 89 species, 29 avian species

were migratory and winter visitors, 4 summer breeder, 4 ordinary migrants and 52 were residents.

Maximum population of birds was recorded during December 2004 and January 2005 due to increase

in population of migratory and winter visitor birds i.e. waterfowl species. Illegal hunting, land leasing

to the farmers for cultivation, eutrophication of reservoir, livestock grazing, and vegetation

exploitation were recorded as the major threats to wild fauna of the study area.21

100. Another population assessment of Houbara bustard was carried out in 3 plots in the province

of Punjab (Pakistan) in November 2001. The total population of the Houbara Bustard was estimated

at about 4 746 birds with an overall density of 0.147 ±0.006/km². The number of birds in

Rajanpur/Rojhan was estimated at 685, in Thal at 672 and in Cholistan at 3 389.22 Similarly, another

study was conducted to estimate the population density of the Houbara Bustard in the Thal in 1999.

In Thal area, 48 transects were taken covering an area of 240 km2. The density was 0.166 birds/km2

and total population was estimated as 625 birds. The highest population was 0.198 birds/km2 in

Choubara (District Layyah), followed by 0.177 birds/km2 in Mankera (District Bhakkar) and 0.09

birds/km2 in Muzaffargarh. 40 Houbara (6+34 footprints) were recorded in 39 groups and the

maximum group size was two birds.23

4.5. Wildlife Management

101. The objectives of the management of wildlife in the rakhs are to indefinitely maintain viable

populations for scientific, ecological, natural, aesthetic, recreational, educational and economic

reasons. The management of Houbara as a key species will directly or indirectly cater for the

management of other associated species. The management of habitat will cover most of the

management requirements of many species. Presently, extraction of fuel wood from government

forests remains unchecked due to lack of staff and other physical resources. A shortage of training,

skills and physical resources also hinders both the provincial Forest and Wildlife Departments in

formulating management plans, monitoring biodiversity and implementing in-situ conservation

measures. Additionally, these departments lack the experience in integrating custodian communities

in Protected Areas management.

102. During the past few years, Thal has witnessed a considerable change in the cropping pattern.

The desert areas are being drastically converted from gram cultivation into high value agriculture

crops. This change in land use is significantly impacting the desert ecology. Intensive agriculture has

20 Riaz, M., Sidra, S., Ali, S. and Ali, Z. (2019). Assessment of avifaunal diversity in riverine and urban areas of Layyah along

the River Indus, Punjab-Pakistan. Ornithological Science, 18(2), 149-160.

21 Mahboob, S. (2009). Diversity of Avifauna of Trimmu Barrage, District Jhang, Punjab, Pakistan. Pakistan Journal of

Zoology, 41(1).

22 Nadeem M. S., Asif M., Maan M. A. 2004. Estimation of the Punjab (Pakistan) wintering population of the Houbara Bustard

Chlamydotis macqueenii. Acta Ornithol. 39: 75–78.

23 Nadeem, M. S., Maan, M. A., Mahmood, T. and Abbasi, A. I. (2005). Population estimates of Houbara Bustard Chlamydotis

undulata macqueenii in Punjab, Pakistan, November 1999. Ardeola, 52(1), 163-166.


37

resulted in pesticides contamination in the area, causing habitat degradation and posing threats to

wildlife especially birds, small mammals and reptiles. Expansion of human population and their

encroachment into natural areas has further aggravated the situation.

103. The indiscriminate illegal hunting and wildlife trade, such as of Chinkara, has resulted in

serious decline in population of some species. Similarly, illegal hunting of Houbara bustard by the

local communities and poachers from outside and its trade within and outside the country had put

species in decline in the Thal region.

104. Local people lack awareness about the role the wildlife play in keeping the ecosystems healthy

and their contribution in our daily food chains. Except the Houbara bustard, which is in high demand

within and outside Pakistan, the local communities are not concerned about their conservation. Local

hunters also kill wild animals for sport hunting. The local population is afraid of lizards and snakes;

thus, kills every specimen which they encounter, leading towards depletion of these precious animals.

4.5.1. Illegal Practices and Overexploitation of Natural Resources

105. Bushmeat hunting and illegal trade is a threat that needs greater attention in the targeted

rakhs of Thal, particularly for Houbara, Black-bellied Sand Grouse, Dove and Desert Hare etc. Baseline

Ecological Surveys (in October 2019 and August 2020) of the GTCIIP areas revealed that offtake of

Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle is alarming. Another major threats to wildlife of Thal is “ignored

families” like jogies, who are involved in illegal trapping and trade of wildlife. These animals become

a part of onward trade / export. Incidentally jogies specialise in hunting of reptiles and small mammals;

they collect important reptile species such as Cobra, Sand Boa, Freshwater Turtle, Crested Porcupine

and Hedgehog from the area and sell them to business parties. The whole environment of Thal is thus

fragile and can lead to the changes in the distributional patterns of several species associated with

this environment. Encroachment by the surrounding residents has become growing illegal practice,

which is basic root for all other illegal practices. Due to absence of policy on ‘underground water

resource usage’, installation of tube wells without consideration to ‘available resources for pumping

out’ is extremely overexploitation of water resource and reason of salinity in populated areas of the

desert. The ‘overexploitation of natural resources’ is equally true for wild medicinal herbs, grazing

lands, game animals, fish stocks, shrubs and trees, and aquifers.

106. Smooth implementation of BAP may bring the support of policy makers and open the doors

to improved wildlife law enforcement and ecological monitoring in the selected rakhs. It will enable

data collection and transparency of aggregated information and would serve as an important

component of improved environmental governance for multiple actors to counter illegal and illicit

natural resource extraction activities in the targeted rakhs. Integrated suite of activities given in the

BAP (Section 8.2) may strengthen natural resource governance, including line department’s response

to the crime. The local-to-sub-national approach will support communities in managing their natural

resources, bolster effective law enforcement and prosecution, provide support systems for

biodiversity conservation, and increase the information available for effective management and

decision-making.

107. NGO partners’ long term investment in the selected rakhs will develop the relationships and

some institutional structures essential to project success, and would provide the enabling environment

for conserving overexploited reptiles and other wildlife of Thal. However, food security and alternative

livelihoods are needed to address the underlying drivers of biodiversity loss and maintain

constituencies for conservation.


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4.5.2. Recommendations

108. In order to ensure effective management of rakhs and wildlife, following recommendations

are made:

i. Establishment of a Rakh Steering Committee: A ten member Rakh Steering Committee

should be constituted to oversee the implementation of the BAP and to help solve the

complicated management issues that are likely to arise relating to political, administrative,

developmental, financial and general policy matters. This committee should include

government functionaries, NGOS, community representatives and professionals.

ii. Establishment of dedicated range office: For better watch and ward and ensure the

coordination with the GTCIIP staff, it is highly recommended that a dedicated rangelands

Office should be positioned within rakh boundaries. The most suitable site for the such office

would be in the proposed GTCIIP Office-cum-Housing Complex. The Range Officer (Law

Enforcement) should be present in the field 24 hours with his designated staff. An information

centre should also be established in the GTCIIP office till the departments develop their own

facilities accordingly. The office should have at least four rooms. Optionally, four living

quarters with attached bathrooms may also be provided in order to provide overnight

accommodation for forest/wildlife staff in GTCIIP Office-cum-Housing Complex.

iii. Limiting visitor activities: In order to minimise the visitor activities in the Core Zones of

Houbara, the use of service roads should be restricted and should only be used by the

range/wildlife staff or for conducted tours.

iv. Development of a research station: A two room building should be constructed or an already

available infrastructure in the field should be designated as research station and should be

available only to the researchers.

v. Establishment of radio net: A senior officer, at least of the level of a Ranger, should be

present at the rakh/range office round-the-clock basis and maintain continuous radio contact

with the field staff as well as Bhakkar HQ.

vi. Increase in field staff: The field staff should be strengthened with regard to its numbers and

rakhs should be divided into law enforcement blocks, each block being protected by a team

of two forest guards/wildlife watchers.

vii. Provision of essential field equipment: The field staff should be provided with all the

necessary field equipment, including but not limited to 20 binoculars, 8 spotting scopes, 10

compasses, 100 backpacks, 25 radios, 20 rifles, 6 digital cameras, 2 drone camera and 100

torches.

viii. Construction of outposts: At least two Forest Guards/Game Watcher huts or law

enforcement outposts should be constructed in each rakh to provide acceptable permanent

accommodation for the law enforcement staff. These posts should be constructed using

locally available materials. The development of small catchment areas to trap rainwater, store

and filter it for domestic use may be helpful.

ix. Improvement and maintenance of road and trail network: The road and track system of the

rakhs should be rationalised and improved to facilitate both improved access to remote areas

and better control over movement in the rakhs. The vast areas of broken and impassable

terrain of rakhs are a major obstacle to comprehensive and regular visits of senior conservation

staff to the rakhs. Roads do exist but are frequently washed away or covered during floods or

sandstorms. Such roads should be repaired and graded regularly to maintain an effective

mobility. The BAP should make provision for the renovation of a minimum of 10 km of road

every year.

x. Provision of logistical support: It recommended that at least six all-wheel-drive vehicles, 10

motorcycles (125 CC), and four tractor trollies/water boozers should be provided under

GTCIIP to solve logistical issues of the field staff.


39


40

5. COMMUNITIES AND CONSERVATION

5.1. Community Situation

109. Management of protected areas and natural resource conservation is more a matter of

managing people. It’s a proven fact that majority of protected areas as well wildlife conservation

initiatives that have attempted to isolate communities from conservation business have mostly failed.

Most successful conservation models own and respect the role of custodian communities as co-

managers and collaborators. The basic argument of this approach is that unless local people have a

genuine interest in the conservation initiatives, it’s unlikely that desired objectives can be achieved as

they have good knowledge and understanding of their resources, issues and possible solutions.

110. The main profession of the local communities GTCIIP command area is agriculture and grazing

of livestock. The system of grazing the animals is based on rotational grazing and permits (issued by

the Range Management officials by receiving grazing fee according to animal size) with the target of

keeping rangeland’s health in good conditions. These rangelands are cause of variety of products like

beef, mutton, hides, skins, wool, manure and others for local consumption and export by dint of

providing forage to the livestock. Grazing permission, excessively more than carrying capacity, has

introduced large-scale retrogression. Again, these are the local communities, who can revert the

retrogression into progression, if they are convinced, trained, and involved in major operation of

reseeding, replanting, and optimum grazing.

111. The implications of low socio-economic profile of the area (as described in Section 2.2) are

grave and multifaceted in the context of biodiversity conservation. It adversely fosters the degradation

process on rakhs’ natural habitat and further subdivision and fragmentation of small landholdings. It

ultimately adds to the fragile and marginal lands by denudation of forests and rangelands, and

accelerates migration from rakhs and command areas to nearby urban areas and inland big cities.

Therefore, all GTCIIP operations and interventions have to be implemented in a way that health of

natural habitat and biodiversity status are not compromised. The following safeguard measures need

to be kept in mind all the time during construction and operation phases:

• Degradation through GTCIIP operations must be avoided, if inevitable then alternate have to

be provided along with mitigation measures.

• Project benefits after the construction phase must be ensured on sustained and equitable

basis.

• No rakh area (Rangeland) should be allowed for converting into agricultural land.

• Further encroachment and change of use in rakhs must be stopped.

5.2. Agriculture-Desert Interface

112. The ‘Agriculture-Desert Interface’ is not beneficial for agriculture but may be beneficial for

dessert. The matter of ‘Nature and Fauna’ targets at emphasising the complication of the interface

Box 2: The challenge is human

• Human action has reduced biodiversity and modified wildlife population structures and at

an unprecedented rate.

• Last 50 years, the human population has doubled; the global economy has almost

quadrupled and global trade has increased by approximately ten times.

• Today, it would take 1.6 earths to meet the demands that humans make on nature each

year; and more species are at risk of extinction than ever before.


41

between agriculture and desert in Thal. The practice grants shelterbelts, as a suitable association

between agriculture and desert for improved efficiency in agriculture and tree-culture. It identifies the

limits of shelterbelts at the current level of information, but considers that it is one of the techniques

we can mark awareness from agriculture and trees to increase ecological advantage.

113. From the climate change point of view, ‘Agriculture-Desert Interface’ is a challenge in areas

like Thal including GTCIIP for the synchronisation of expansion works, adaptation and mitigation

measures. Climate change will have bearings on agriculture and shelterbelts through reduction in

agricultural yields, thus, pushing natural resources towards more pressure compelling farmers for

extending agricultural operations to virgin lands. It will further pose serious problem of climate change

but we are already lagging behind regarding mitigation choices. GTCIIP interventions may check this

trend because of increased income based on intensive agriculture rather to expand towards new

areas.

114. As compared to the industry, agriculture is low-income practice but it delivers wide-range

livelihood opportunities for the most of resource-poor farmers. At the same time, it is an important

reason of environmental deterioration (ozone layer depletion) due to natural range vegetation

removal (already scarce in Thal), use of fertilisers and pesticide, addition of animal manure, and

methane emissions from livestock.

5.3. Livestock-Wildlife Interface

115. The livestock–wildlife interface is typically categorised by management operations designed

for adjusting hitches connected with competition, ailment, and despoliation. Large wildlife species,

e.g., large vertebrates are characteristically unsuited with agronomic practices and expansion for the

reason that the opportunity costs of wildlife protection are excessive apart from pure desert areas

(excluding irrigated croplands). Natural biological features comprising the availability of extra

foodstuff and water for livestock, along with the oppression of big killers, bring about livestock

substituting wildlife. Diseases are difficult to eliminate from wildlife (roaming in the nearby area). The

only solution is veterinary health cover with attention on splitting marketable livestock from wildlife.

116. Attaining the operative incorporation of livestock and wildlife association at the landscape

level needs the conciliation of manifold social and political hurdles, and for lots of rangelands the

chance might be vanished before suitable variation can happen. However, there is escalating

confirmation that rangelands can be organised for both livestock and wildlife where the costs of

rivalry, predation, and disease can be counterbalanced by mixed return lines and enabled grazing. In

prosperous countries, there are supplementary options comprising marketing plans, such as tagging

livestock harvests as “wildlife-friendly,” which might permit bonus payments to be credited to comfort

the compensation charges. Another serious interface is real conflict between snakes and livestock and

human itself. The conflict is based more on panic and fear of snakes on the part of human rather than

harms by the snakes to livestock or human. Because of the situation, many species of snakes are

threatened. The resolution of this conflict is linked with simple awareness raising and consequent

training on one point that all the snakes are not poisonous and few poisonous only bite upon killing

efforts by human just because of panic and fear.

5.4. Agriculture/Livestock Benefits to Biodiversity

117. In fact, our fundamental necessities not only for food security but also for livelihood security

depend on agricultural biodiversity. Keeping in view GTCIIP interventions in Thal, the benefits of

biodiversity look obvious with reference to waterbodies like canal network development because of

nutrient concentration. Processes of concentration make wetlands (water bodies) the best useful and

most treasured ecosystems in arid regions like Thal. The change in nutrients and/or hydrological cycle


42

will further enhance the benefits of water bodies. The productiveness of waterbodies in the areas like

Thal is furthermost obvious, where the dissimilarity with the adjacent areas is widely apparent. The

very first narration of conspicuous change will be in agriculture, livestock development, fisheries

growth and expansion, and the production of natural products. All these positive modifications will

lead to assembly of biodiversity.

118. The assembly of biodiversity is beneficial to agriculture and livestock and vice versa as

symbiotic relationship. It offers humans with foodstuff, raw ingredients and supplies for chattels and

goods; e.g., fibre for cloths; timber for shelter; fuelwood for cooking; herbs and various parts of the

plant species for medicines; and resources for biofuels. Biodiversity as such, and agricultural

biodiversity specifically, accomplishes ecosystem services like soil and water conservation and

maintenance of biota and pollination of plants, altogether are perquisite for foodstuff provision and

thus for human survival. Genetic diversity as necessary part of agriculture make available species with

the capacity to acclimatise to altering environs and to develop by growing their adaptation to various

surrounding factors such as chill and cold, elevated heat and hotness, moisture dearth and drought,

and sometimes dampness due to heavy rainfall and waterlogging, also withstanding ability against

pests and parasites.

119. In broader terms, livestock is essential part of agriculture in Thal. As a part of agriculture and

as a sole entity, livestock (main product and minor products) can contribute a lot. The contributions

are backing-up sustainable rangeland manipulation, protecting wildlife and many other kinds of

biodiversity, improving soil productiveness through nutrient release and mobilizing, directly

encouraging the environment friendly and valuable services, and delivery of specific land scenarios to

consumers in Thal.

5.5. Pressures on Biodiversity from Farming

120. Thal is more prone and inclined towards harms to biodiversity because of unwise expansion

and intensive style of agriculture. Hopefully, GTCIIP will play a balancing role by fostering the mutual

benefits between biodiversity and agriculture, and will not enhance uneven pressure on biodiversity

through excessive and unwise farming in the rakhs and adjacent areas of Thal.

121. Like other deserts, Thal desert species and ecosystems have distinctive mechanism to deal

with low and intermittent rainfall. The desert ecosystem have a unique resilient capability to

recuperate rapidly from sudden and usual instabilities like drought, sandstorms, and sand dune

shifting. Traditionally, desert people have plotted such type of pastoral and farming practices, which

are liable to changes on the face of these upsets and have maintained the livings for hundreds of

years. This continuous resilient capability is against the harsh disturbances but GTCIIP will not be

sudden and harsh. It will be evolutionary, positive and well known to the people in advance. There

will be no permanent pressure on biodiversity/rakhs, rather a move towards equilibrium. Pressure on

already meagre biodiversity will be inevitable and rapidly prone to negative changes in case of

overexploitation of natural resources.

5.6. Human Settlements with their Livestock Breeds

122. Human settlements in deserts is a global issue due to accelerated population growth. It is

more serious issue in developing countries like Pakistan. Physiography and location of the desert (and

rakhs) are the vital aspects that control the human settlements. Human populations cannot be

separated from livestock and their breeds, therefore human and livestock move together and as

necessity in Thal including rakhs. ‘Thalochi people’ are nomads and travel habitually to avoid draining

an area of its resources. They have livestock breeds that are adapted to desert circumstances,

particularly camels. Other livestock breeds have already been discussed in detail. In other aspect,


43

livestock and human settlement in desert are also based on encroachment into protected areas (rakhs)

and allied interfaces with wildlife have implications for sustainable development. In addition to

implications for sustainable development, human settlements in desert (and rakhs) also serve as an

important part of the desert landscape and micro and macro climatic conditions influence the spatial

distribution of these settlements. But spatial pattern can be adjusted to achieve sustainable

development within crop culture and livestock grazing practices.

5.6.1. Positive Effects of Grazing

123. Grazing impacts on wildlife depends on the species, site, stocking density, type and timing of

grazing. Grazing may harm population of many birds as well as rodent species but may benefits others.

Effects may vary on the basis of quality management, and livestock and wildlife interaction. Shift of

habitat use by the livestock or wildlife may be another reason of positive effects of grazing on a

particular area. Carefully timed grazing by goats and sheep can be used to generate short term

reduction in the reproduction and cover of exotic species. Regulated grazing may also reduce the fire

dangers in the rakhs. Studies also indicate that soil moisture and plant growth becomes high with the

total coverage over 100%, due to relaxing indirectly the competitive exclusion among plants due to

the grazing of dominant plants. Grazing also helps furthering the germination of Acacia seeds through

seed ingestion by large herbivores; however, it depends upon rates of seed germination, seedling

survival and establishment in the wild.

5.7. Biodiversity’s Benefits to Agriculture and Livestock

124. Within the context of Thal, many aspects of biodiversity’s benefits to agriculture and livestock

are isolated from each other. Habitat formation, not chemical but biological pest control, recycling

and cycling of critical nutrients, augmenting topsoil health and check on soil wash, minimal use of

chemical fertilisers, permeation, and the stoppage of runoff into waterways are the basic benefits that

provide an agenda for prioritisation and intensity of various operations for sustainable agriculture in

a coordinated manner.

5.8. Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use

125. Status and trends of rakhs’ biodiversity explore opportunities for its conservation and

sustainable use because limiting factors of desert ecological zone and people’s capability to act

according to the given situation are the potential targets. Possible considered facts are:

• With the advent of GTCIIP, agrobiodiversity will be relatively well preserved because presently

desert farmers uphold elevated limits of biodiversity of crops and livestock breeds in their

farms and family herds;

• The position of wild animal and plant species diversity is already documented which, needs

organised and regular improvement;

• Planning for the purpose of attaining the rapid recovery because the instantaneous main risk

to Thal biodiversity seems to be the retrogression of ecosystems and habitats initiated by

fresh and commanding powers of agricultural operations and implementation phase of

GTCIIP itself;

• Well in advance planning to manage the biodiversity disturbances due to possible increase in

large scale allotments in rakhs to higher authorities and the resultant human flux, money-

making livestock farming, large scale irrigation of cropland, and poverty-tempted

overexploitation of natural resources;

• Checking discouragements and distortions in the supporting environs and other new forms

of instabilities which, repeatedly suppress the renowned resilience of desert ecosystems and

institute possibly grim pressures to desert biodiversity;


44

• Protection of water bodies and fertile pockets having functions of ‘micro hot spots’ of desert

biodiversity; and

• Protection of particularly susceptible locations in deserts because frequentative and difficult

interactions between desertification, climate change and biodiversity underscore the

significance of desert for the environment as a whole.

126. The above considered facts (priority areas) have been identified which, need pressing

attention to increase awareness about the abilities of deserts and about the significance of its

biodiversity. These are also dynamic choices for conservation and sustainable use of rakh’s

biodiversity.

5.9. Participatory Natural Resource Management

127. The participation of local communities cannot be over emphasised as basic process to take

more responsibility in decision-making and implementing ‘participatory natural resource

management’ (PNRM) and allied development programmes. The process implies delegation of more

power down to local level, by providing incentives for local community initiatives and people’s

participation. For this purpose, clear ‘rights and responsibilities’ should be allocated with regard to

resource use at local level, including those related to the role of women in natural resource use and

maintenance. Education, training and support services have to be provided to enable people to

assume responsibility for managing the natural resources sustainably and protecting their

environment. The role of voluntary organisations and communication programmes in this regard

should be enhanced.

128. The integral ecosystem of Thal desert has unique physiographic, social, cultural and economic

characters because of combined impact of sand dunes, rakh rangelands, agricultural lands, livestock,

and wildlife. PNRM is quite genuine professional need to manipulate this ecosystem under the set

ecological principles. Therefore, PNRM has to be developed based on an elaborate process of public

consultations as well as technical analyses with special emphasis on species recovery (SR). PNRM and

SR are, actually, a wide-ranging strategic thinking and implementation options to gear the

development of GTCIIP area with peripheral villages on a sustainable trajectory. Linkage most of the

livelihoods with rangelands and agriculture makes it a primary focus with the need for initiatives like

productivity improvements of existing species, introduction of appropriate technology, post-harvest

storage and marketing, and support for marketing network.

129. PNRM efforts should be on improving rangeland’s health by reverting the retrogression,

livestock improvement in terms of breeding and health, species recovery, sustainable exploitation,

and provision of alternatives to reduce pressures on natural resources.


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46

6. MANAGEMENT OF RAKHS

6.1.1. Rakhs – Location and Area

130. The gross area of the protected rangelands (rakhs) under Range Management Division,

Bhakkar of the FWFD is 140,577 acres (56,891 ha). These lands are classified as ‘wastelands’ as per

record of the Revenue Department. These areas are highly rich in biodiversity as compared to other

habitat types of the project area due to less human activities, controlled grazing and strict restrictions

on hunting of wildlife. Table 5 presents the rakh areas under the control of Range Management

Division, Bhakkar while Map 4 shows the location of rakhs falling within GTCIIP area. The FWFD staff

are stationed in these areas, and because of the FWFD’s rangeland management, fair to good

vegetation cover is maintained.

Table 5: Rakhs under the Range Management Division, Bhakkar

S. # Rakh’s Name Gross Area Planted Area

Acres Hectares Acres Hectares

1. Rakh Daggar Kotli 2,000 809 175 71

2. Rakh Chikkan 6,879 2,784 0 0

3. Rakh Hundalal 2,674 1,082 0 0

4. Rakh Karluwala 1,444 584 300 121

5. Rakh Gauharwala 24,242 9,811 325 132

6. Rakh Khewyara 12,431 5,031 0 0

7. Rakh Choubara 16,923 6,849 100 40

8. Rakh Kherewala 31,647 12,807 200 81

9. Rakh Shergarh 42,337 17,134 200 81

Total 140,577 56,891 1,300 526

Source: https://fwf.punjab.gov.pk/system/files/RM%20Circle%20Part%202.pdf.

131. Majority of the inhabitants in these rakhs are pastoral. Livestock grazing is allowed under

permit and rotational grazing is practiced in order to improve and maintain good rangeland

conditions. Grazing fee is applied which depends upon the animal size. These grazing lands, wholly

or partially, support most of the livestock population of the area which produces beef, mutton, hides,

skins, wool, manure and other products for local consumption and export. The rangelands have largely

been depleted due to overuse. Some of the key range sites need special protection measures to

improve their ecological health. To improve range health, such areas need to be reseeded and

protected from grazing of herbivores.

132. The Rakh Gauharwala, Rakh Karluwala, Rakh Chikkan and Rakh Hundalal are completely

located within the project area, while a small portion of the Rakh Shergarh also falls within the project

area (Map 4). The proposed Choubara Branch of the GTCIIP will also pass through some of the

abovementioned protected forests (rakhs). The rakhs especially Rakh Gauharwala will get fragmented

and terrestrial ecology will be significantly disturbed. Especially the houbara bustard habitat and

resting ground will be affected resulting in the loss of habitat. As the bird is very shy and prefer to live

in undisturbed habitats. There is high risk that the population of houbara bustard will significantly

decrease in the area or may shift to other safer places.


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Map 4: Rakhs in GTCIIP area


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6.2. Challenges for Management of Rakhs

6.2.1. Impact of GTC, Agriculture and Livestock on Rakhs

133. In rakhs, it is obvious that clearance of natural vegetation for agricultural practices or

development of infrastructure will have impact on native fauna and flora because of increased human

activities and excessive disturbance and disappearance of the shelter and breeding places of fauna in

addition to the exposure to harsh climate. In case the rakh’s natural habitat changes, the native fauna

will flee to areas which are less disturbed and less accessible to humans. Only few species, which have

adapted to this modified habitat, exist in the area. The mammal species, such as wild boar, hare,

jackal, porcupine and fox, are rarely seen in the project area and its surroundings. The logical process

of biodiversity degradation is shown in Figure 6. The result shown can be reverted through sustainable

agricultural development.

Figure 6: Logical process of biodiversity degradation

134. Clearance of natural vegetation for agricultural practices or crop farming was not only the

reason of rakhs habitat disturbance on large scale but introduction of exotic trees, shrubs and grasses

along with dry-planting, tufting and reseeding techniques for water harvesting were also allied

reasons. Therefore, Tamarix and Eucalyptus tree plantations exist on irrigated lands to provide interim

income to the farmers. Linear plantations in the form of shelterbelts and along the watercourses,

partition of landholdings, farm boundaries can also be seen frequently to stabilise the shifting sand

dunes and save the agricultural crops from sandstorms.

135. Historically after the construction of ‘Thal Canal’ the area (desert) has been transformed

gradually (partially, certain pockets) from wasteland to productive and rangeland to agricultural lands.

The major interventions (pro as well as anti-range vegetation cover) were: research-based range

rehabilitation techniques (reseeding and planting of indigenous and exotic grasses, shrubs and trees;

stabilisation of shifting sand dunes) by the government institutions and progressive farmers, modern

agricultural technologies (applied in fertile pockets), and tube-well irrigations. Although area of ‘rakhs’

under the control of Punjab Government diminished, yet productivity and range vegetation cover can

be improved in the form of blooming deserts. This is only possible by involving the communities by

developing ownership among them.

136. As derived from GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report (2020), there will be major impacts of GTC

system both on agriculture and livestock. Construction of the GTC system will provide reliable

irrigation water supply to about 560,000 ha of the land during the monsoon (Kharif) season (mid-April

to mid-October). As a result, it will not only intensify the crop culture but will also expand further

Primary Causes

•Vegetation clearance

•Infrastructure development

•Increased human activities

Secondary Causes

Excessive disturbance & disappearance of shelter & breading places of shy

faunal species

Results

•Native species flee (more)

•Adaptive species stay (less)

•Biodiversity retards


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croplands on the cost of rangelands. Increased agricultural operations means increased livestock

numbers. This change will impact the wild fauna and flora of the area.

137. The proposed GTCIIP canals will traverse through the areas of some rakhs, partially or fully.

Therefore, floral and faunal set-up of these rakhs are bound to be disturbed. Resting and breeding

places of all faunal species will be affected, some at large extent and some at little extent. Availability

of irrigational water for agricultural option will lead to transformation of unproductive to productive

land and rangeland into cropland. These risks must be kept in mind for their alternate management

options.

138. The scenario before and after GTCIIP implementation and completion of GTC system (as

discussed in the preceding sections) will call for sustainable development and management of rakhs

and adjacent areas by deploying conservation approach and involving the local communities in the

process of decision-making. It will help to protect and improve the biodiversity status in rakhs.

6.2.2. Communities’ Dependence on and Perception about Rakhs

139. Spectrum of dependence of communities on the rakh and their perceptions are interlinked as

both of them figure each other. The dependence and perception varies with variation in income level,

literacy rate, living standard, routine practices, and prominent professions of the communities living

in and around the adjacent areas. Keeping in view the community situation, it is clear that communities

are dependent on rakhs for way, water, fodder, grazing of animals, fuel wood, fodder, and illegal

hunting.

140. Khan, M.S. and Bhagwat, S.A. (2010) studied local people's perceptions, awareness, and

approaches to protection arrangement and supervision in Chitral Gol National Park in Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa (KP) of Pakistan. There were three main findings: less information level, poor

participation in management, and utmost inclination of the communities to join in maintenance deeds.

Also, strict approach of authorities to administrate the safety and security plans were devoid of

sustainability idea. It was also concluded that native communities possess a very firm wisdom of

relationship to the protected area like rakhs and are eager to get involved in the security of protected

areas. These results clearly obviate the need to modify the existing administration approach for

operative, participative and maintainable controlling of areas like protected areas, and by that means

rakhs.

141. Custodian communities if engaged accordingly play an important role in the conservation and

protection of the natural resources. Generally, their links, dependency and ownership with the

protected areas (rakhs) are strong. However, a missing link between the custodian departments,

absence of thematic focus and a limited access to knowledge and capacity building, negatively

impacts the sustainability of the conservation efforts. Being the native and important stakeholders,

the community can be engaged to provide feedback, identify priorities and opportunities, establish

positions on issues and approaches, and plan strategies for intervention for the effective

implementation of BAP. Custodian departments such as FWFD and the Irrigation Department should

remain a strong advocate of engaging communities in their planning and implementation. This will

strengthen not only institutional capacity but will also enable them to work upon different thematic

areas as well. Local adaptation/conservation plans can be developed from the BAP document and can

be implemented through communities. As a result, certain concrete undertakings for aggressive

conservation and protection efforts as an antidote to protect the natural heritage of the GTCIIP

command area and rakhs can be implemented accordingly. Custodian departments in collaboration

with the key stakeholders/communities can integrate BAP into poverty reduction and development

plans to streamline the conservation efforts in Thal.


50

142. According to the participants of community consultations, held in August 2020, hundreds of

hectares of land, which are currently rain/tube-well irrigated, in the vicinity of rakhs will benefit from

the canal construction and command area development. Hence, value of their land has increased

manyfold. However, they emphasised their resolve to maintain ecological sanctity of rakhs. They also

recommended that jobs for local people should be created for biodiversity conservation so that there

is a sense of ownership for their ecological resources. In general, the construction of any irrigation

system will have positive socioeconomic impact due to increase in agricultural yield and livestock

numbers. As a result, their living standards would improve. They admitted that few negative

environmental impacts, like connectivity, threats to wildlife/biodiversity and pollution due to

pesticides, are expected which can be mitigated through adequate measures. They expected that

eco-tourism may increase leading to additional income generation for the communities as well as

protection of wildlife. They suggested that canal should not divide the rakh into two isolated parts;

so, pedestrian bridges must be constructed at different points to facilitate the movements of both

human and wildlife. Livestock being the main source of living for small landholders and landless

households need special emphasis.

6.2.3. Rakhs’ Conservations Value

143. Conservation value of all rakhs and adjacent areas can be restored by arresting the above

issues because several of them are relevant to all with varying degree of intensity. Additionally,

enforcement of conservation and environmental law, local conflicts and lack of local employment

associated with poor livelihoods contributes to reduction in conservation value. Above all, lack of

irrigation water is a severe constraint in the rehabilitation of rakhs, which is going to be addressed by

GTCIIP.

6.3. Management Arrangements

144. Bhakkar Forest Division was created under Thal Development Authority (TDA) in the year,

1952. When the development of Thal tract started, government decided to allocate waste land for

afforestation in order to stabilise shifting sand dunes and for the production of timber and firewood.

In 1951, this tract was handed over to Punjab Forest Department. The forest area is around 15,531

acres. There is also linear plantation of 1,345 km alongside the road/rails/canals in the district. The

popular trees of this area are Kikar and Shisham. The ‘rakh areas’ under the control of Bhakkar Range

Management Division are rich in biodiversity and productivity as compared to adjacent desert land

and other habitat types of the project area due to less human activities, controlled grazing and strict

restrictions on the hunting of wildlife.

6.3.1. Structure and Staffing

145. A fundamental requirement for the proper management of any component of a protected

area is a sound administrative infrastructure. The recommendations made in this section, based on

experience gained with the management of other similar protected areas, deal with suggested

changes and improvements to the administrative structure for management of rakhs. At present the

administration of the rakhs are in the hands of a Divisional Forest Officer and District Wildlife Officer

under the overall supervision of the Chief Conservator of Forests North and Director General Wildlife

Punjab, respectively. Most of the present staff, including the deputy rangers, forest guards and wildlife

watchers, are locally recruited. Many of them are elderly and do not possess any formal education.

Although they have keen sense of observation, they have not received any professional training.

146. The availability of disciplined, energetic and professionally trained staff with a strong sense of

responsibility is a key component of successful PA management. There is substantial scope for

improvement in this respect in the case of rakhs of Thal.


51

147. The present arrangements for protection of the rakhs are inadequate. A key issue is adequate

supervision. The senior staff’s visits to the rakhs are occasional. The total current staff of Range Forest

Division, Bhakkar responsible for the protection of rakhs are 69 (Figure 7). Sadly, most of these staff

neither have any formal education or training nor they are adequately equipped to carry out their

responsibilities. Not even fundamental equipment like binoculars, spotting scopes and two-way radios

are available.

Figure 7: Current organogram of Range Forest Division, Bhakkar

148. Based on the discussion with the DFO and other staff, the additional positions (Table 6) are

recommended to manage the Thal desert more effectively and efficiently. Further institutional

recommendations are made in Section 8.2.

Table 6: Additional staff required for effective rakh management

Position Grade (BPS) Number

GIS/MIS Specialist 17 1

Range Forest Officer 16 2

Legal Advisor 16 1

Forester 11 4

Forest Guards 9 6

Tube well Operator 02 2

Divisional Forest Officer (1)

Range Forest Officer (3)

Forester (7)

Forest Guard (34)

Patwari/ Demarcation Darogha (1) Head Clerk (1)

Steno/Typist (1)

Senior Clerk (1)

Junior Clerk (5)

Naib Qasid (5)

Chowkidar (4)

Tractor Driver (4)

Jeep Driver (1)

Mali (1)

Sweeper (1)


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6.3.2. Law Enforcement

149. Interviews with some of the department employees stationed on the rakhs and in its environs,

revealed that rakhs have experienced a broad range of law enforcement problems since their

proclamation. Rakhs have been subjected to transgressions ranging from relatively minor incidents

like littering and simple trespassing to collection of firewood to the felling of native trees, invasion by

herds of domestic livestock and illegal hunting.


53


54

7. BUSINESS AND LAND MANAGEMENT

150. In the context of Thal and GTCIIP area, livelihoods of rural communities depend primarily on

the natural resource base (crop and livestock farming). The development of all other livelihood assets

(human, physical, financial and social) originate from and are tied with the natural resources.

Henceforth, livelihood improvement is closely linked to sustainable use of natural resources of Thal.

Natural resources comprise normally land, water, livestock, flora, fauna and environment that will

figure out complete farming system and allied practices in Thal generally, and GTCIIP area specifically.

All the elementary provisions will interlink with farm operation. Wheat grains as principal food for

human and wheat stalks (bhoosa) for livestock consumption will largely come from GTCIIP canal

irrigated and tube well-irrigated pockets. Domestic milk consumption and cash income will be earned

through sale of milk and livestock products that will meet basic expenses. At the same time, it will

release the pressure on illegal hunting of migratory birds and normalise the stressed rangelands.

Following important aspects of livelihood approach will be helpful to devise the implementation

strategy and during the post-implementation era.

151. There will be shifts towards tube well irrigated agriculture because of water table

improvement based on seepage and percolation from canals and it will support to sustain livelihood

in terms of household food security and developing household assets (dairy farming and milk

production through ensured fodder supply from irrigated pockets, sale proceeds from trees

particularly planted as shelterbelts). It will release pressure on natural resources because of

diversification in living plans by investing in farm and non-farm small-scale businesses.

152. With the development of irrigational water resources through GTCIIP, land will be the key

element determining the livelihood with major shift from pastoral economy to agricultural economy.

Hence, there will be great opportunity of establishing the processing and value addition mechanisms

for agricultural and livestock products with market network from local level to big cities. It will also

provide the opportunities of a viable environment and employment. However, rural youth will have to

be streamlined with balanced approach towards off-farm and non-farm employment to avoid the

dearth of farm labour. There will be strong need to change the conventional cropping system (high

cost of irrigation, high evapotranspiration, seepage and high conveyance losses) as the outdated

irrigation systems have made the irrigated agriculture inefficient, wasteful, and unmaintainable in Thal

and GTCIIP area.

7.1. Agriculture

153. Thal including GTCIIP project area is, predominately an arid, inclined towards range

management but certain areas are altered into rain-fed agriculture as well as irrigated agriculture (on

canal and/or tube well). Here land holdings are small and often fragmented. Average annual rainfall

is scanty with 60% in monsoon season (extremely inconsistent). The cultivated crops include wheat

(Triticum spp.), chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench), millet (Panicum

miliaceum L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), and guar seed [Cyamopsis

tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]. Rangelands (rakhs), regardless of over-exploited more than the carrying

capacity, sustain a significant livestock population. Crop culture is generally primeval, facing key

difficulties of moisture trauma, uncertain weather extremes, sand laden storms, and nutrient

reduction. Thus, agriculture from land management point of view has become a high-risk and low-

input enterprise for poor farmers. They normally use traditional seed, less and improper fertilisers,

and substandard agronomic operations. Therefore, crop produce and returns are far less as compared

to attainable capacities.

154. The prime crop of Thal is chickpea or channa (Cicer arietinum), the cultivation of which has

been extended even to sand dunes and face variation in term of production. Some years its


55

production is increased, for example, during 2018-19, chickpea production increased at the tune of

35.6 percent due to promising weather condition at the time of sowing (Economic Survey of Pakistan

2019-20).24 The yield of chickpea (in some years) is at subsistence level (e.g., during the 2005-06). The

fluctuation demands for developing a strategy to improve and sustain chickpea production every year

because it is used both for human intake and animal feeds in rural and urban areas. Other than

variation factor, many (of reduced market prices and low productivity) have to be considered for

devising strategy, for example; (i) less than 20 hectares of rain-fed land possessed by almost two-third

of the farmers, (ii) seed retained from earlier crop used by 85% farmers, and (iii) purity dearth in the

selling of seed of indigenous variety. The strategy options for enhancing production significantly may

include; (i) by promoting seed of drought resistance high yielding varieties and (ii) better agronomic

and management practices. In spite of variation, the cost-benefit (C-B) ratio of 1:2.5 in low production

year of chickpea has given beneficial (positive) returns and adopting devised strategy based on value-

added knowledge and equipment would accelerate the rise in the returns at the farmstead and

household levels. (Shah, N.A. et. al., 2007). Consequently, ‘natural resource base’ will be rescued and

there will be space of improvement in biodiversity as well as habitat as a whole in rakhs and adjoining

areas. At the same time, the planting of woodlots should be encouraged at appropriate places in the

communal lands around the rakhs to provide an alternative for wood illegally gathered from the rakhs.

155. As a holistic approach, the natural resources (land and water) need to be well-looked-after

with relevant techniques like integration of deep ploughing for moisture conservation, zero-till where

possible to avoid soil erosion, agricultural extension services, provision of loans with modern

techniques at the door step of farmers, right varieties of right crops at right time along with other

inputs, and range management practices on marginal lands. These are the necessary protocols of

‘sustainable agriculture’. For ensuring the high agricultural production, total long-term curative

actions like runoff agriculture, rainwater harvesting, land amalgamation, financial support, soil and

water improvement techniques, integrated nutrient and pest management, and weed control are

needed. As the agriculture in Thal desert (rakhs and adjacent and all-around areas) is open to many

pressures, deployment of business oriented (enterprise) approach for land management is imperative

to accomplish the objectives of ‘sustainable agriculture’. The following agricultural enterprises may

be promoted for salvage of the natural resources, for which the prefeasibility studies can be accessed

at PARC website:25

• Off season vegetable production

• High tunnel herb production

• Value addition and marketing

• Vegetables nursery raising

• Fruit and forest plant nurseries

• Vegetable seed production and marketing

• Informal village-based seed enterprise for wheat

• High efficiency irrigation system services business

7.2. Livestock

156. Importance of Livestock management and planning is second to none in an agrarian country

like Pakistan. This can be judged from the country figures that agriculture’s share is 18.9% in GDP

with Livestock’s (as main sub-sector of agriculture) at the tune of 58.9% to agriculture value addition

and 11.1% in overall GDP. The gross value addition of livestock sector in 2017-18 has increased 3.8%

24 Government of Pakistan. 2020. Economic Survey of Pakistan 2019-20. Islamabad: Ministry of Finance, GoP.

25 PARC Pre-feasibilities (http://www.parc.gov.pk/index.php/en/2014-01-22-03-26-43).


56

to PKR 1,377 billion from PKR 1,327 billion in 2016-17.26 Another benefit of Livestock raising is

increased income (in terms of milk and meat) for landless households, poor farmers and small

landholders to meet their daily needs of cash and food security. Reducing income variability gap,

financial backstopping at the time of crop failure, uplift of socio-economic status, and significant

contribution in poverty alleviation are essential sprouts of livestock rearing (Faraz et. al., 2019).27

157. Up to 1970s, livestock economy remained dominant in the entire dry desert areas (including

Thal desert) of Pakistan because of rangelands and free grazing of herds (local as well as migratory).

From 1990s, it started to shift from ‘rain-fed’ to ‘tube-well irrigated’ agriculture. To feed self-owned

livestock or just sale to livestock-owners, fodder cultivation remained main and attractive option

through resource allocation particularly in tube-well irrigated areas. Then it was the ‘Thal desert tract’

where the livestock economy was transformed in to ‘gram economy’. because of GTCIIP, now it will

be third transformation from ‘tube-well irrigated’ to ‘canal irrigated’. Despite all these phases,

livestock still remains the centre point.

158. For the sake of profit, based on local market feasibility (commercial approach), farmers are

interested in crossbred cattle farming at small scale for selling milk and offspring. Exceptional upkeep

and incremental feed is integral part of cattle/cows farming. Majority of farmers is not using balanced

feed for their livestock and very few use mineral supplements. For higher milk yield, use of cotton

seed cakes (khal) is main practice. The situation provides an opportunity of much improvement in

livestock management. The needed measure include balanced feed, mineral supplementation and

artificial insemination (AI) through better and quality semen in both local and crossbreed animals. AI

of local breeds should not be allowed for all 100% of the animals but a reasonable percentage

(uniformly distributed throughout the Thal area) should be kept as such in original genetic makeup.

159. Dairy animals, particularly the crossbred cattle, are now focus of the livestock farming in entire

Thal tract (specifically in Noorpur Thal area). On average basis, 2-3 crossbred cattle per household

are reared. The most successful and proved cross is Friesian because of its adaptation to the severe

environment of Thal. The crossbreed cows have much better milk yield with considerable variability

from 10 to 35 litres/day. Local breed of buffalo is found with average milk yield ranging from 8 to 12

litres/day. The milk yield for local and desi cows is very low (4-7 litres/day) with short lactation period

of 5 to 7 months. In summer months, their milk productivity falls very low as most of lactating desi

cows became dry due to shortage of fodder and harsh season. Orthodox ‘dodhi milk marketing

system’ prevails, resulting in low price of milk (Rs. 45/- per litter of cow milk and Rs. 50/- per litter of

buffalo milk). Milk marketing system is still underdeveloped and network of modern dairy supply chain

is not established due to remoteness and other issues (Shah, H et. al., 2013).28

160. At household level, livestock farming is a common practice. Usually, it is mix of all kinds of

livestock. On average basis, the livestock mix includes goats, sheep, cattle, buffaloes, donkeys and

mules with count of 22, 16, 7, 2 or 3, 0.21 and 0.05, respectively. In terms of ‘Standard Animal Units’

per livestock farm comprises of about 17 on average (Hussain, I., 2017).29 Such type of mix livestock

farming at household level along with multiple breeds of each as a whole ensures the maintenance of

26 Government of Pakistan. 2019. Economic Survey of Pakistan 2018-19. Islamabad: Ministry of Finance, GoP.

27 Faraz A., Waheed A, Mirza RH and Ishaq HM. 2019. Socio Economic Status and Associated Constraints of Camel

Production in Desert Thal Punjab. Pakistan; J Fisheries Livestock Prod, 2019, 7:1.

28 Shah, H., M.A. Khan, A. Ashraf, A.U. Cheema, M. Aslam and S. Ahmad. 2013. Poverty Alleviation and Economic Growth

through Sustainable Use of Natural Resources in Noorpur Thal. A technical study conducted through PATCO for SVDP.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan.

29 Hussain, I. 2017. Profile of Livestock Production in Thal Desert of Pakistan. International Journal of Academic Research in

Business and Social Sciences, 7(3), pp.480-94.


57

‘livestock biodiversity’ in Thal. It is also important because of its originality (local breeds), adapted

from other geographical areas, and crossbred (through AI) as shown in Table 7.

Table 7: Livestock biodiversity in GTCIIP area

Livestock Local

Breeds

Adapted Crossbred Remarks

Buffalo (Bubalus

bubalis)

Kundi, Nili Ravi Few breeds (among many)

are adopted in Thal.

Cattle

(Bos taurus)

Desi Sahiwal, Kachi,

Cholistani

Jersi and Friesian Crossbred for milk

production

Goat (Ovine

vignei)

Beetal Tedi Rajanpuri Rajanpuri from DG Khan

Sheep (Caprine

hircus)

Thalli Kajli Chatra

mundra, Balochi

Balkkhi, Lohi,

Damani

Mix of Kajli and

Thalli,

For mutton and wool, also

found in Multan and

Muzaffargarh districts

Dunba (Lamb) Rajanpuri From DG Khan for Eid-ul-

Zuha

Camel (Camelus

dromedaries)

Marecha,

Barela

Mahra is also name of

Marecha

Horses (Equus

caballus)/ Mules

Arabian Pak-Arab,

Through bred

‘Horses’ in Pakistan are large

majority of ponies.

Poultry (Gallus

gallus

domesticus)

Desi Fumi, Misri Open House broiler farming

Sources: Faraz A., Waheed A, Mirza RH and Ishaq HM. 2019. Socio Economic Status and Associated Constraints of Camel

Production in Desert Thal Punjab. Pakistan; J Fisheries Livestock Prod, 2019, 7:1.

Shah, H., M.A. Khan, A. Ashraf, A.U. Cheema, M. Aslam and S. Ahmad. 2013. Poverty Alleviation and Economic

Growth through Sustainable Use of Natural Resources in Noorpur Thal. A technical study conducted through

PATCO for SVDP. Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad,

Pakistan.

https://agrihunt.com/articles/livestock-industry/horse-breeds/.

Personal knowledge of the consultant.

161. Availability of fodder in Thal is big issue because supply of seasonal green fodder is limited

to few months of growing season; whereas, dry stalk (mainly wheat straw, millet and gram) are the

alternate option during lean period. For milking animals, cotton seed cake (khal) and wheat bran (turri)

are used as supplemental feed. Open grazing for local as well as nomadic herds is the best option

when gram crop is harvested in summer. Poor performance and low productivity of livestock

management is connected with short and unhygienic diet and poor health facilities. Despite the fact

that fodder cultivation differs in all ecological variations of Thal but Kalar grass as main fodder remains

available in summer in river flood plains and berseem in winter. Other fodder crops like sorghum,

millet, and guar in summer while berseem and lucerne in winter are cultivated in tube-well irrigated

areas. On rakhs rangelands, open and free grazing of local and nomadic livestock (small ruminants)

herds have reduce because of rangeland deterioration and expansion of irrigation sources.

162. Keeping in view the discussion made above, following are the suggested measures to

enhance the livestock production and productivity per animal for boosting up the inclusive growth of

livestock agribusiness in Thal desert:


58

• Maintenance of pedigree records of animals to fetch higher prices; improvement of the

genetic potential of local breeds through artificial insemination and standard services of sires

during breeding seasons.

• Vaccine insemination to the animals by herders as well as government organisations to protect

livestock from diseases.

• Development of marketing infrastructure (food-chains and value addition system) to put high

prices in the pockets of farmers through sale of milk, meat, and other dairy products along

with fascinating investment on commercial ranks.

• Use of electronic and print media and making farmers organisations etc. for creating

largescale awareness among primary producers along with struggles of community

mobilisation and encouraging gross-root participation at local level in change actions.

• Due attention (at the level of policy makers and planners) to the difficulties of small farmers

and pastoralists.

• Organised loan facilities (one window at the doorstep of farmers) for installation of tube wells,

fodder cultivation (alpha alpha, mott grass, Sudan grass, re-plantation of fast growing fodder

trees, shrubs and grasses), energy plantations, dairy farms establishments, storage facilities,

and health-cover facilities.

• Breeding practices for true-to-line and pure breeds of Kajli and Beetle with involvement of

research organisations and relevant livestock farmers.

• For productivity enhancement of small ruminants; promotion of lucerne crops and

concentrates.

• Feed-lot-fattening as a profitable business in the area, i.e., rearing of animals at household

level, both small and large, for Eid-ul-Azha.

• Launching of incentive programs by the public and private bodies, i.e., distributing prises to

people who have large size of livestock.

• Above than all, a quick responsive health cover facility in the form of vet. Hospitals along with

mobile units having the facilities of AI and vaccination (regular and emergency).

163. Livestock and poultry farming are now recognised industries. Therefore, entrepreneurship

concept for the promotion of livestock and poultry industries is inevitable to be adopted on modern

lines with the induction of value addition and food chains in Thal area. It will ensure the sustainable

development of natural resource base on one side and will not jeopardise the biodiversity on the

other side. These enterprises will reduce the pressure on “natural resource base” because the local

community members will get employment opportunities and local farmers (as entrepreneurs) will have

reasonable source of income to elevate their living. They will not opt for overexploitation of

rangelands (shelter and breeding place of wildlife) and not hunt migratory birds for boosting their

earnings to sustain daily life needs. The ultimate impact will be safeguarding the ‘biodiversity’. Other

than ‘dairy farming’, following are livestock related enterprises of, for which complete prefeasibility

can be accessed at PARC website:30

• Rural poultry (NARC hybrid) production and marketing

• Goat fattening

• Sheep fattening

• Silage production in silo-pit in peri-urban areas

• Fattening of buffalo/cattle calves

30 PARC Pre-feasibilities (http://www.parc.gov.pk/index.php/en/2014-01-22-03-26-43).


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7.3. Water Resources

164. Regarding Thal, monsoon rainfall is the major source of water,; which is extensive in amount,

flooding, unpredictable in nature and irregular in occurrence. There is noticeable discrepancy in

average annual precipitation from 385 mm in the north-east to 170 mm in the south and during

monsoon around three-fourth of annual rainfall is received. The intensity of this rainfall is so intense

that it does not give time for infiltration leading to groundwater recharge. Other natural reason of no

recharge is lack of organic matter in alluvial and sandy textured sand dunes covering 50 to 60 percent

of the area. The situation can be improved by adopting rain harvesting techniques at large scale on

extensive area to stop the surface run-off. This will also reduce the brackishness of groundwater,

rejuvenate the vegetation and resultantly upgrade the status of biodiversity.

165. Like other areas of Indus basin, water of the Indus River is the prime source of surface water

for Thal area, which is stored in Chashma Barrage Reservoir via Chashma-Jhelum link canal. Main Thal

Canal (MC) and Mankera Branch Canal (MBC) are irrigating to almost 40,000 ha and 104,000 ha,

respectively. The proposed GTC system will also draw its water from the same source to deliver

irrigation water to around 120,000 ha of cultivated land and support to command area covering

264,000 ha (GTCIIP EIA Report, 2020).

166. Quality of ground water is of more concern than its quantity for the purpose of irrigation as

well as other uses. Environmental malfunctions, agricultural pollution, uncontrolled human actions,

industrial wastes and emissions, ecological disturbances, and insufficient ground water regulation are

various aspects, which impact conspicuously on the ground water quality of specific zones including

Thal Zone. Shafiq M., et. al., (2018)31 launched a field study to assess the quality (overall 370 water

samples) of groundwater being pumped. The study found quality of 47% samples unfit for irrigation

purposes. Unfit water was mitigated (minimizing the deleterious effects of salts) into fit by mingling

of brackish water with canal water in diverse amounts in combination with or separately occasional

flushing of soil profile with high quality irrigation water. Because of groundwater over-exploitation

and natural phenomenon, brackish water prevails from the underground water table (upper surface

of saturation zone) to aquifers (saturated zone beneath the water table) which is unfit for drinking and

irrigation purposes. This situation is most common in the populated areas as compared to the

periphery. People can be seen moving (with water containers) from populated areas to unpopulated

peripheries for collection of drinking water.

167. Some small semi-natural water reservoirs should be constructed at suitable sites throughout

the rakhs. Special caution should be taken to choose natural pond areas with a minimum of surface

area. Such ponds should be built at locations which are under constant surveillance by field staff in

order to minimise the chances of them being used as poaching sites. The precise location of the water

points should be determined in consultation with the FG/GW responsible for each area. Particular

care should be taken not to cause any permanent disturbance to the local ecological processes. The

loss of rare and endemic species of flora should be especially avoided. Accumulated sediment should

be regularly removed from the artificial water points, especially after heavy rain or sandstorms.

7.4. Recreational Opportunities

168. Well-managed tourism can contribute to conservation while providing employment and

revenue to the local communities. At a minimum, local people should be trained and hired as guides

and support staff. Tourism must be managed to ensure that it does not contribute to environmental

31 Shafiq M., A. G. Sagoo, M. Arif, M. Yousaf, M. Zafar, N. Akhtar, K. Nazir and A. Hannan. 2018. Assessment of

Groundwater Quality Status for Irrigation in Thal Area. Current Investigations in Agriculture and Current Research (CIACR),

5 (5), Lupin Publisher, https://lupinepublishers.com/agriculture-journal/pdf/CIACR.MS.ID.000225.pdf.


60

degradation or cultural disintegration. A portion of all profits should be invested in local conservation

and social development. Programmes that use participating tourist to accomplish research and

conservation goal should be encouraged.

169. Eco-tourism is a management tool that integrates conservation with recreation, conservation

education, conservation awareness and resource economics. This component of rakh management is

a means to the sustainability of management interventions. Like most other PAs, rakhs of Thal also

has great potential for eco-tourism. It offers a multitude of attractions for ecologists, biologists.

naturalists, environmentalists, trekkers. mountaineers, geologists, soil scientists and the general public

170. Restricted eco-tourism should be permitted in selected parts of the core zone in the interests

of conservation education. All eco-tourists should be duly registered before entering the core

habitats. They should preferably be accompanied a member of the rakh staff. Eco-tourists should

confine themselves to the designated trails and routes at given times to avoid disturbance of wildlife.

Activities like trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing etc., should be confined to designated areas in

specific seasons. A stringent code of conduct should be formulated for eco-tourists and be strictly

implemented.

171. Current recreational use of rakhs in Thal is almost none but, in the wake of recent trends,

these deserts have lot of recreational potential for people looking to turn around their hard city

breathes. Rakh protected areas are the most beautiful gift of nature because these are culturally rich

and within the easy reach. There are certain recreational events such as Thal Food Festival (TFF),

Desert Safari (other than the protected areas), at selected central and accessible locations can be

organised. Wilderness of desert surface due to wild jumble and junk of sand dunes and sand ridges is

worth seeing. A natural jeep- and motorcycle-stable sand road may be marked and certain mild and

extreme weather times of the year be fixed for its viewing. The language of the Thal is Thalochi dialect,

which itself is very rich in local songs with beautiful local musical instruments. Promotion of these

events will boost the income of local people, providing a strong reason of release pressure on the

natural resources.

172. Thal is very rich in beautiful bird species, which provides an opportunity to promote the

tourism by establishing “bird seeing spots” with necessary facilities, staff and equipment. Similarly,

migratory birds visit specific wetland pockets, which can also be developed with watching towers but

under strict control to avoid illegal hunting. Fish points for “catch the fish, eat the fish” may be

developed with proper stocking of local fish species. Cage fish farming for Tilapia in reservoirs

available in Thal area will not only promote fish protein consumption for local people but also will be

a source of recreation for tourist.

173. However, rakhs’ habitat has remained under heavy exploitation from local inhabitants, both

for livestock grazing and fuel wood collection. Threats to habitat are likely to intensify with increase

in tourist flow. The impact on habitat will be through littering of rakhs , casual damage to vegetation

and collection of firewood by picnickers with enhanced probability of grass fires.


61


62

8. HOW TO GET THERE?

8.1. Major Constraints and Opportunities

174. There is no doubt that the desert communities have lived in the area since centuries and have

adapted to adverse physical environments. They have deep understanding of existing resources and

have maintained their living patterns accordingly. Though main emphasis of the baseline ecological

survey was to investigate the ecological attributes of the areas; however, a few obvious cumulative

impacts of the prosed project to the social and economic conditions in the Choubara Branch are

summarised here.

175. Highly positive and significant cumulative impacts are expected on property values because

of the construction and operationalisation of the Choubara Branch Canal. For instance, the price of

land (mainly sand dunes) will be increased manifold having become cultivable due to this initiative.

Positive and significant impacts are also anticipated in relation to economic activity around the

proposed canal; however, the extent of this effect will rely on the coordinated planning between

water availability, its optimum use, distribution and land use planning. There is ample scope for

enhancing livelihoods opportunities for the communities in changing climate by bringing in new

knowledge and ideas, and systematically integrating these with traditional indigenous knowledge and

skills. The local economy will also benefit primarily by increased temporary and permanent

employment opportunities, the project will create considerable non-technical jobs for local

enterprises, such as security, and provision of goods and services.

176. Crop productions in command area will be increased after the construction of canal. Major

food crops such as wheat, maise, sorghum and barley will replace the desert into agriculture lands.

On the other hand, invasive as well high delta tree crops such as Eucalyptus may replace the native

trees due to its market value. In un-irrigated area of Mankera Tehsil, from where Choubara Branch is

to be constructed, has much better and undisturbed habitat for houbara bustard. But as soon as the

construction of the Choubara Branch will be completed, the desert ecology of the area will be

converted into agricultural one. The natural vegetation will be cleared, habitats will be disturbed and

connectivity between the habitats will be disrupted due to expansion of agricultural lands and

development of infrastructure. As a consequence, much of the native fauna including mammals, birds

and reptiles will move to the areas which are less disturbed. This may result in the loss of prime habitat

of houbara bustard and other biodiversity of the area. Compensatory protected areas should be

established and protected to offset the loss of natural habitats from the project. It must be ecologically

similar to, and no smaller than, the rakh/natural habitat area lost or degraded by the GTCIIP. The costs

of establishing and managing compensatory protected areas must be considered part of the costs of

the overall GTCIIP. Such initiative will provide an opportunity to turn a negative project feature

(natural habitat loss) into something environmentally beneficial in the form of new or improved

existing rakhs. To sustain such initiatives certain percentage from the collected Abiana may be

earmarked.

177. Replacing the desert ecology into agriculture may also lead to population increase that has

already accelerated enormously during the past few decades especially after the construction of Thal

Canal. Use of intensive farming methods to obtain the maximum yield of crop from the farmed land

may increase the probability of application of chemical fertilisers and the widespread use of pesticides

which would ultimately have an adverse effect on the avifauna, small mammal and reptiles. The

farmers frequently make indiscriminate use of pesticides and insecticides. There are a great number

of insectivorous birds, which are greatly affected due to these insecticides. Slowing and eventually

reversing the population growth and minimising their footprints, awareness raising, provision of


63

agricultural extension services and reproductive health services must be planned and implemented

accordingly.

178. Canal can impede the movement of many animal species especially reptiles and mammals.

Barriers to the movement of animals can lead to fragmentation of populations. Isolation caused by

physical barriers to movement, such as canals, may reduce gene flow causing genetic effects that in

the extreme could result in local extirpation. For small mammals, it could result in ecosystem level

alterations because of their importance as seed dispersers and their role as prey for such predators

as jungle cat and birds of prey.

179. However, the construction of canal will also provide a refuge and staging habitat for migratory

bird species and mammals such as jangle cat. It is envisaged that once the canal is completed, this

will attract more water birds in winter, and the water birds wintering in the surrounding wetlands will

have an alternative site for resting. Further, due to seepage, water bodies/wetlands may be created

in the surrounding areas which will provide food and habitat to many bird species.

8.1.1. Major Issues

180. One of key issues faced by most wildlife species of Pakistan is the dearth of the scientific data.

This includes their long-term population assessment and monitoring, migration patterns, breeding

biology, behaviour, distribution and the habitat requirements. This has to be in different seasons so

that a complete scientific assessment of the key wildlife species could be made.

181. The construction of network of roads and other infrastructure in the Thal region has

fragmented the key habitat of wildlife species. Expansion of human population and their

encroachment into natural areas has further aggravated the situation. The most affected is the desert

ecology, which host to a range of key wildlife species i.e. Houbara bustard, of the region.

182. As in most other parts of Pakistan, this region has also seen extensive illegal hunting and

wildlife trade, which has resulted in the local extinction of Chinkara, and a few others are facing serious

decline. In addition, illegal hunting of Houbara bustard by the local communities and poachers from

outside and its trade within and outside the country had put species in decline in the Thal region.

183. Local people lack awareness about the role the wildlife play in keeping the ecosystems healthy

and their contribution in our daily food chains. Except the Houbara bustard, which is in high demand

within and outside Pakistan, the local communities are not concerned about their conservation. Local

hunters also kill wild animals for sport hunting. Local communities also consider few species as pests.

184. During the past few years, this region has witnessed a considerable change in the cropping

pattern. The desert areas are being drastically converted from gram cultivation into high value

agriculture crops. This change in land use is significantly impacting the desert ecology.

8.1.2. Major Constraints

185. Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department is the custodian department to manage the habitat

and the wildlife species. Unfortunately, there is a limited technical capacity of the department to

handle such large areas. The staff is not trained to manage community owned natural areas and other

rakhs owned by Forest Department. There remains a huge capacity gap, which restricts the field staff

in effective management of such areas.

186. Inadequate field facilities for the staff of the Punjab Wildlife Department are a big

management constraint. This is due to the fact that there is a limited number of field staff, which not

only lacks field equipment but also the field vehicles to traverse large areas. Similarly, there are no


64

field accommodations where the staff can be housed to ensure strict law enforcement. Hence effective

monitoring remains a big question mark.

187. It is recognised worldwide that local community engagement is vital to ensure sustainability

of conservation efforts within any given landscape. This initiative has produced positive results even

within Pakistan, when we talk about community-based trophy hunting programme and many other

such interventions. Unfortunately, in the case of Thal area, little effort has been made towards this

except the communities are only engaged when the Houbara are being hunted and when certain

benefits are provided to the communities, and this too is on ad hoc basis.

8.1.3. Potential Opportunities

188. There exist a huge research potential in the region. Being desert ecology, research related to

desert habitat, species, home range requirements of species, habitat and land use change etc. should

be made part of the overall plan. This will provide support to researchers, academia and others in

effective planning, implementation and monitoring of interventions in the region.

189. Very few studies are available on the scientific knowledge of the species and habitat. This plan

provides an opportunity to update scientific knowledge and enhance species/habitat database

development. This will help in understanding the Thal region’s flora and fauna.

190. Chinkara is locally extinct from the region. There is a huge potential to revive the lost

population by following IUCN reintroduction guidelines. However, there is a need to conduct a

comprehensive assessment of habitat versus species requirements in order to reintroduce the species

in its habitat, which faced extensive hunting pressure. This will also help in identifying the basic issues

faced by the species.

191. The conservation of rare species is of prime importance for the local community as most of

the financial aid coming to the region from foreign dignitaries is being invested on community

development initiatives. This is one of the tools to manage wildlife through selective hunting. This also

provides an opportunity to protect other species of special concern in the region.

192. The existence of Greater Thal Canal in the region will enhance the wetlands development

opportunities i.e. agriculture, fishing, aquatic biodiversity, ecotourism, aesthetic, and many others.

This will also create an opportunity for the locals to generate resources for their sustenance, if

managed properly.

193. Keeping in view the large-scale recent infrastructure development (road network, small

cottage industries, agriculture land use change etc.), habitat fragmentation is on its peak. Developing

ecological corridors provides an opportunity for the local wildlife staff to conserve the species on a

sustainable basis.

194. There is a huge possibility of support from other sectors. Public private partnership can be

one of the possible options to explore in the region to support rare habitats and species

195. Communities are sensitised to protect key species of the region and they know the value of

it as well. There is a huge opportunity of protecting the rich natural fauna of the region through

engaging communities in conservation interventions.

8.1.3.1. Reintroduction of species

196. Chinkara disappeared from this desert tract almost four decades ago. The habitat is still in a

better position and can support its extant population. The plan provides an opportunity to follow

IUCN Reintroduction guidelines for Chinkara reintroduction. This includes three pronged approach:


65

Pre-release, Release and Post Release. Every step requires implementation of a range of small

interventions. Further, the engagement and role of custodian communities is also important to

support this initiative.

197. Hog deer is another key species, which can be introduced in the potential habitat, which will

be created as a result of Greater Thal Canal. This needs careful review, evaluation of the habitat and

the species requirements. The foremost pre-requisite is the habitat feasibility study.

8.1.3.2. Scientific Research

198. Houbara bustard is a key species of the region. Regular species population and habitat

monitoring should be part of this Biodiversity Action Plan. This will enhance the knowledge about the

species in the Thal region and will help update the population status and habitat improvement.

199. One of the most refined scientific researches would be the GIS based assessment of the Thal

region. This will help in understanding habitat change analysis, land cover and land use changes and

other information, which is necessary for the decision making by the policy makers.

200. Impacts of climate change on species and habitats, as Pakistan has been on the top 10 most

affected countries due to climate change. This has an impact on our economy, health, agriculture,

infrastructure development and biodiversity conservation too. This is an important part of the research

in the recent times and is a cross sectoral issue. It is very difficult to be handled by one department;

rather joint efforts are needed to ensure the achievement of long-term positive impacts.

201. Ecological corridors are developed due to habitat fragmentation for providing a safe

migration route to the wildlife. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of such corridors and this

may change with the passage of time, depending on the species population expansion, reduction of

threats and species adaptability.

8.1.4. Stakeholder Views on Biodiversity Management

202. In order to collect the data and to know the perceptions of relevant departments and

communities, consultative sessions were organised with representatives of the provincial departments

and communities to understand the dynamic nature of conservation challenges, its trends and drivers

and effects of GTCIIP on biodiversity of Thal. The meetings were held with the representatives of

Forest and Wildlife Department, Agriculture and Livestock Department, Irrigation Department,

protected area management experts, and the relevant communities. These discussions have helped

to develop consensus on the way forward in the form of this Biodiversity Action Plan. Following are

few suggestions inferred from the stakeholder consultations:

• A Rakh Management Committees (RMC) should be created to assist in the management of

the rakhs in Thal; however, management of rakhs should remain an overall responsibility of

the Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Department, in collaboration with other departments,

agencies, NGOs and communities as deemed appropriate.

• Promoting increased community involvement in rakh management, the community should be

represented in the Rakh Management Committees and should be involved in rakh

management and environmental management.

• Grass-roots plans (e.g. village development plans) should be devised and linked with the

government policies for successful implementation. New legislation, policies and institutional

linkages should be promoted to encourage community participation.

• It is also recommended that a trust/endowment fund to be established. This fund would

operate in conjunction with the BAP, but independently of it and should preferentially provide

funds for the ecological and social aspects concerning the rakh management.


66

• Illegal hunting and poaching of the wildlife species especially black francolin, grey francolin

and other important birds should be controlled while houbara bustard hunting by the Arab

diligent should be banned in the area for its protection and conservation.

• Wildlife check posts should be made in the remote areas of the Thal Desert for regular

monitoring of the porous grounds against the illegal hunting and poaching of the species.

• Licensed weapons should be provided to the wildlife rangers for the protection of the area.

• Awareness campaigns, seminars and meetings should be held in the local community for the

biodiversity conservation and protection.

• Small-scale credit programmes should be started to enable communities to purchase the

necessary services, equipment and supplies for improved agricultural production, handling,

and marketing, etc.

• Technical assistance should be specifically provided to improve all forms of water

management.

• Ecotourism-based development should be designed so that it does not adversely affect the

local communities.

8.2. The Action Plan

203. The biodiversity conservation and mitigation measures proposed in the preceding chapters

are wide-ranged; hence require a phased approach to implement the action plan. Accordingly, the

actions to be taken during the GTCIIP implementation, mainly construction phase, are given in Table

8. These actions will primarily be responsibility of the GTCIIP team, especially the Director

Environment and Social Unit (ESU) within Project Management Office (PMO), in close collaboration

with FWFD and will be implemented through engaging a consulting firm or a non-governmental

organisation having relevant experience.

204. The long-term actions, which can accrue far-reaching biodiversity benefits but are outside the

ambit of the GTCIIP, are mentioned in Annex 1 for the Government of the Punjab to pursue through

public funds and/or civil society as well as private sector contribution. This chapter primarily concerns

with the first set of actions to be taken through the implementation arrangements proposed for

GTCIIP.

Table 8: The Biodiversity Action Plan

Action Cost

(USD)

Responsibility Timeframe (Year)

1 2 3 4 5 6

1. During project construction, monitor and

report on the implementation of the

Construction Biodiversity management Plan

set out in the EIA/EMP.

60,000 BAP Consultant

EDCM Consultant

ESU

FWFD

Contractor

◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉

2. Build capacity of FWFD staff, construction

managers and contractors in GTCIIP

implementation in compliance with the

Safeguards and Mitigation Measures


ESU

◉ ◉ ◉

3. Conduct annual surveys of range resources

and population of threatened species,

especially Saker falcon and Houbara

bustard, particularly in rakhs and generally in

GTCIIP area to monitor the trends.


ESU

FWFD

◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉


67

Action Cost

(USD)

Responsibility Timeframe (Year)

1 2 3 4 5 6

4. Develop rakh-specific species conservation

plans for threatened species, especially

Saker falcon and Houbara bustard.


ESU

FWFD

◉

5. Develop and implement species

reintroduction and enrichment plan for flora

and fauna in the rakhs.


ESU

FWFD

◉ ◉ ◉

6. Design and implement community

awareness programme (using information,

education and communication materials,

and cultural event) to support in-situ and ex-

situ conservation efforts.


ESU

NGOs

FWFD

◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉

7. Promote and establish community

conservation networks across GTCIIP area to

revive the degraded ecosystem functions

and services, and to promote agriculture-

conservation coexistence.


ESU

Agri. Dept.

NGOs

◉ ◉

8. Foster linkages and partnerships with the

private sector businesses to invest in local

biodiversity conservation.


ESU

◉ ◉

9. Initiate a pilot programme for ecotourism

promotion in one of the rakhs.


ESU

TDCP

◉ ◉

10. Advocate for long-term conservation efforts

through implementation of follow-up actions

given in Annex 1.


ESU

FWFD

◉ ◉

11. Provide patrolling vehicles, surveying

equipment and watch & ward gear (as per

Annex 2) to FWFD staff in Bhakkar Division

for effective conservation and protection of

biodiversity.

50,000 PMO ◉

12. Support FWFD in Bhakkar Division for

effective patrolling and watch & ward

operations

10,000 ESU

PMO

◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉ ◉

13. Construct four 2-room field offices (one in

each of the Rakh Gauharwala, Rakh

Karluwala, Rakh Chikkan and Rakh Hundalal)

as per specifications given in Annex 3.

40,000 PMO ◉

TOTAL 300,000

Notes: BAP = Biodiversity Action Plan; EDCM = Engineering Design and Construction Management; ESU = Environment &

Social Unit [within PMO]; FWFD = [Punjab] Forest, Wildlife & Fisheries Department; PMO = Project Management

Office [GTCIIP]; TDCP = Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan.

8.3. BAP Implementation Arrangements

205. The implementation of BAP would primarily be responsibility of the GTCIIP-PMO entrusted

downwards to the Environment and Social Unit within the PMO. The proposed ESU is headed by a

Director, Environment and Social, assisted by a Deputy Director, Environment. It may recruit more

technical and supporting staff as per needs of the field. However, the ESU will need to engage a


68

suitable consulting firm or non-governmental organisation, having relevant experience in conservation

and ecological monitoring, as BAP Consultant. The BAP Consultant will be responsible to deliver the

Actions 1 to 10 of Table 8. The procurement of equipment and operations (Actions 11 & 12) and

construction of guarding huts (Action 13) will be responsibility of the PMO, through its Procurement

Unit.

206. However, an effective implementation of BAP will require very close liaison and coordination

with the Punjab Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Department through its district offices of Divisional

Forest Officer and District Wildlife Officer.

207. The EDCM Consultant, and the Contractor for canal construction and allied activities, will play

an important role in BAP implementation through compliance of ADB-SPS 2009 and EIA/EMP.

208. The organisational arrangements for BAP implementation are shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8: BAP implementation organogram

23. The BAP implementation will coincide with the GTCIIP implementation so that the community

involvement, agricultural initiatives and floral and faunal conservation activities can complement the

mitigation measures and monitoring of the GTCIIP EMP, as well as the design and construction

activities under GTCIIP.

8.3.1. BAP Consultant

209. The BAP Consultant, to be hired on intermittent input basis for the entire project duration (6

years), will offer at least the following expertise:

i. One Conservation Manager/Team Leader (National)

ii. One Sustainable Agriculture Specialist (National)

iii. Two Monitoring Officers (National)

iv. Technical Advisor & Fundraiser (International)

Project Management

Office, GTCIIP

Pb Forest, Wildlife &

Fisheries Dept.Pb Irrigation Dept.

Bhakkar Forest

Division

Environment & Social

Unit, GTCIIP

BAP ConsultantConstruction

Contractor EDCM Consultant

Pb Agriculture Dept.

PAD GTCIIP

Directorate


69

210. The BAP Consultant may propose some additional expertise on short-term basis as required

for undertaking some specific tasks, such as fauna population census, species management planning

or community mobilisation and awareness raising (Error! Reference source not found.).

Figure 9: Organogram of BAP Consultant

8.3.2. Implementation Arrangements for Follow-up Actions

211. The follow-up actions, proposed in Annex 1, are equally important; however, does not fall in

the ambit of GTCIIP implementation. The Punjab FWFD will be the main agency for coordinating and

implementing these actions, and will coordinate with Planning and Development Department, and

other government line agencies to secure necessary support to ensure implementation of the

proposed actions. Being the custodian of ecological sustainability of entire Thal area, FWFD will

ensure the fund flow mechanism to the district level and field level teams. In addition, all the provincial

level coordination with a range of stakeholders including with academia, NGOs, the private sector

and others will be carried out by the office of the Secretary, FWFD.

A district level Steering Committee comprised of government line agencies, conservation based

organisations, district authorities and community representatives may also be notified for effective

coordination amongst the stakeholders and reviewing the progress on yearly basis.

8.4. Monitoring and

Reporting

Mechanism

212. The BAP Consultant

will prepare quarterly

monitoring and progress

reports on compliance of

mitigation measures and

implementation of BAP. These

reports will be submitted to

ESU for further submission to

PMO and ADB. Additionally,

PMO and ADB may also deploy

missions to monitor overall

GTCIIP implementation, of

which BAP implementation will

be an integral component.

Conservation Manager /

Team Leader

Agriculture Specialist

Technical Advisor &

Fundraiser

OrnithologistHerpetologist

Range Specialist

GIS Specialist Wildlife Biologist

Forestry Specialist

Monitoring Officers

FWFD

Irrigation Department

District Authorities

Conservation Organisations & Academia

Local Communities


70

213. As biodiversity conservation is a perpetual process, it is important that the BAP is reviewed

periodically in the light of population censuses, surveys and assessments of floral and faunal species

in rakhs and adjoining areas. This will help in any course correction, if required.

214. The BAP implementation will be reported against the following annual indicators to ensure

No Net Loss to the biodiversity of rakhs and the adjacent areas:

Annual Indicator Goal Threshold Means of Verification

1. Decline in area of rangeland

vegetation

0% or

increasing

≥5% Annual surveys of range

resources

Quarterly monitoring &

progress reports

2. Decline in population of Saker

falcon

0% or

increasing

≥5% Annual species population

surveys of Saker falcon

3. Decline in population of Houbara

bustard

0% or

increasing

≥5% Annual species population

surveys of Houbara bustard

4. Extension of canals, or pumping of

water, from canals in the rakh

areas

Zero Any Quarterly monitoring &

progress reports

215. As Government of Panjab and WWF Pakistan are particularly monitoring the status of Houbara

bustard in Thal, it will be useful to have a close coordination with the effort to validate the results of

population censuses, surveys and assessments conducted under GTCIIP-BAP implementation. The

GTCIIP Ecological Survey Report (2000) will serve as the benchmark for such assessments.


71

Annex 1: Follow-up Actions for Government of the Punjab

Outcomes Actions Outputs Timeframe Cost (PKR) Responsibility

1. Biodiversity of

Thal region

maintained and

improved

1.1. Conduct population

censuses of significant

biodiversity of Thal

region on an annual

basis to monitor

population trends

• Experienced field survey team

using standardised survey methods

engaged for annual population

monitoring in Thal Region

Regular / Annual

Basis, at least for

next 10 years (2021-

2030)

3.5 million Pb Wildlife & Parks Dept.

Houbara Foundation Intl.,

Pakistan

WWF-Pakistan

Local communities

Pakistan Museum of

Natural History

Zoological Survey of

Pakistan

1.2. Establish a network of

community-based

protected areas and

other potential habitats

across the entire range

in Thal Desert to revive

the lost ecosystem

functions and services

• “Rakhs” and other potential

habitats are mapped and protected

in collaboration with local

communities for providing a safe

resting and breeding place for the

local biodiversity.

• Ecological corridors mapped and

existing habitat improved and

threats of illegal hunting minimised

with the help of local communities

• Implementation of the long term

Biodiversity Management Plan

initiated and progress monitored

Ongoing for at least

10 years

(2021-2030)

10 million Pb Forest Dept.

Pb Wildlife & Parks Dept.


NGOs

Local Communities

Farmers

1.3. Identify threats and

implement mitigation

plan in collaboration

with local stakeholders

• Threat analysis conducted through

a consultative session involving

major stakeholders including social,

economic, ecological / Climate

change

2021-2030 30 million Pb Wildlife & Parks Dept.

Pb Forest Dept.

Pb Irrigation Dept.

Local Communities

WWF-Pakistan


72


• Funding sources, timeframe and

roles and responsibilities of major

stakeholders defined to implement

the mitigation plan

• Interventions initiated in

collaboration with partners and

stakeholders such as establishment

of check posts at main entry and

exit points; community based

protection mechanism at village /

Union Council level; provision of

field transport facilities for the staff

of Pb Wildlife & Parks Dept. to

control poaching; establishment of

Hunters Association at the Tehsil

level to promote them as

Conservation Ambassadors

• Awareness raising campaigns

launched through holding sessions

with local communities to minimise

threats to the local biodiversity

• Legal hunting banned for at least

next five years till the population

recovers and can afford sustainable

hunting

1.4. Maintain and enhance in

situ and ex situ

conservation measures

as part of an integrated

approach to conserve

• Additional field staff recruited to

protect species of special interest in

their natural habitat

• Potential habitat restored through

stopping encroachment and

reseeding to improve its quality

2021-2030 30 million Pb Forest Dept.


Pb Irrigation Dept.

Academia

Pakistan Museum of

Natural History


73


species and genetic

diversity.

• A wildlife breeding farm cum zoo

established to supplement natural

populations

• A gene bank of local fauna

established in a HEC recognised

local university to preserve genetic

diversity

1.5. Increase understanding

and use of a whole-of-

ecosystem approach in

biodiversity

management

• Knowledge about the species and

habitat developed through field

assessments, stakeholder

consultations and literature review

• Desert ecosystem boundary

defined keeping in view the home

range requirements of certain key

wildlife species for adopting

landscape level approach



Pb Irrigation Dept.


Pakistan Museum of

Natural History

Zoological Survey Dept.

WWF-Pakistan

Local Communities

Academia

Local Leaders

1.6. Identify rakhs in which

habitat linkages are

important for

biodiversity

conservation and secure

these areas through

mechanisms such as

complementary land-

uses and partnerships

between governments

and private landholders.

• GIS based demarcation of

important natural areas and

mapping of the wildlife species of

special significance

• Home range requirements of

significant wildlife species

determined and potential

ecological corridors mapped

• Negotiations undertaken between

government and farmers / private

landholders, consensus developed

and MoU / agreement signed for

biodiversity conservation


Local Farmers

Private Landholders


74


1.7. Conduct a change

analysis of wildlife

habitat: historical versus

present and identify

threats to habitat due to

population expansion,

conversion of land for

agriculture, cropping

patterns and other

infrastructure

• Encroachment in the agricultural

areas strictly monitored and

banned by the staff of Pb Forest

Dept.

• Existing habitat of the significant

wildlife species mapped through

using GIS and monitored over time

for any change in its status

• Reseeding in potential habitat

carried out by the Pb Wildlife &

Parks Dept. and Pb Forest Dept. to

further improve the quality of the

habitat and remove invasive species

in its habitat

2021-2030 4.5 million Pb Forest Dept.


1.8. Infrastructure

development

interventions managed

effectively to protect

biodiversity

• Nature based solutions introduced

to minimise the impact of any hard

infrastructure interventions in the

potential habitat of Houbara

bustard

• Mitigation / management plan

developed as part of the EIA of the

project and ensure implementation

of the interventions


WWF-Pakistan

2. Thal

Conservation

Endowment

Fund (TCEF)

operationalised

2.1. A clear and

comprehensive

investment policy sets

out the core principles

the TCEF used for

conservation.

• Approved investment policy for

TCEF

2024 200 million Pb Forest, Wildlife &

Fisheries Dept.

Pb Finance Dept.

Private Sector

2.2. Develop resource

mobilisation strategies

• Detailed resource mobilisation

strategies or action plans in place


75


or action plans for

raising long-term capital

as well as shorter-term

funding for particular

projects or programs

for raising long-term capital as well

as shorter-term funding for

particular projects or programs.

2.3. Credible governing

body in place

• TCEF governing body or its

committee responsible for

overseeing investment

management, invests and manages

as a prudent investor would invest

his or her own funds.

3. Meaningful

stakeholder

linkages,

investments and

partnerships

forged

3.1. Develop linkages and

partnerships with the

private sector

businesses to invest in

local biodiversity

conservation.

• Private sector business approached

and sensitised on local

environmental issues

• MOUs signed with the local

businesses to provide support for

biodiversity conservation

• Pilot projects initiated with Public

Private Partnership mode



Private businesses

NGOs

3.2. Enhance interaction with

the custodian

communities and

engage them in

conservation of the

species

• A network of CBOs established to

gather their support in biodiversity

conservation

• Green employment on an ad hoc

basis and other incentives

introduced for their regular

engagement


Local NGOs/CBOs

Local communities /

leaders

4. Conservation

knowledge

sharing improved

4.1. Complete assessments

at district as well as

provincial levels to

identify knowledge

needs and gaps and to

• Reports on population assessment

published

• Lessons learnt / success stories

developed for wider dissemination


Pb Forest Dept.

Pakistan Museum of

Natural History

Zoological Survey Dept.


76


set research priorities

for biodiversity

conservation at all

levels.

• Online knowledge management

system established

WWF-Pakistan

4.2. Reactivation of

traditional management

system

• Values and traditional management

systems in place

2021-2025 2 million Provincial Government,

WWF-Pakistan

4.3. Inculcate the traditional

wisdom and values into

the rakh planning

• Traditional wisdom based pilot

initiative taken

5. Illegal wildlife

trade curbed

5.1. Field work in small

mammals, reptiles and

raptors sourcing as well

as primary exit points,

to strengthen Thal’s

knowledge-base on

harvest and trade.

• Understanding of unsustainable and

illegal behaviour associated with

biodiversity loss and ecosystem

degradation improved

2021-2030 5 million TRAFFIC

WWF-Pakistan

Line Depts.

DGPR

TV channels

Journalist forums

Press Clubs

5.2. Increase proactive and

results-oriented

engagement of civil

society organisations in

combating illegal

practices targeting

Thal’s endangered

natural resources.

• Capacity of community-based

organisations strengthened to

monitor illegal activities involving

Thal’s endangered natural

resources and compliance with

laws.

WWF-Pakistan

National Rural Support

Programme

Local NGOs

5.3. Focus on empowering

journalists to organise

forums, conduct

investigative projects,

write blogs, articles and

increase domestic

• Media coverage and exposure of

abusive practices targeting Thal’s

endangered natural resources

increased

DGPR

TV channels

Journalist forums

Press Clubs


77


media coverage of

illegal activities in

national newspapers,

radio and TV programs.

6. Capacity of

FWFD local

offices

strengthened

6.1. Depute and equip

additional forest and

wildlife staff for effective

conservation of

biodiversity

• New PC-1’s developed for keeping

additional staff and resources on a

long term basis



6.2. Provide appropriate

logistic support to the

field staff of Pb Forest

Dept. and Pb Wildlife &

Parks Dept. to keep

staff mobile and present

in the field

• Field accommodation and transport

facility ensured for the field staff by

the Dept.



6.3. Provide legislative

support to the

community-based

protection mechanism

and also to community-

based protected areas

• Legislative gaps identified and

addendum/notifications

recommended

2022 2 million Pb Forest Dept.


7. Biodiversity

conservation

integrated into

development

planning

7.1. Integrate biodiversity

conservation into district

as well as provincial

planning instruments by

implementing a decision

making hierarchy for

biodiversity

management: the first

aim is to avoid loss; if

• District level conservation plan

developed by Pb Wildlife & Parks

Dept. in collaboration with local

government line agencies and

approved by the respective Deputy

Commissioner

• Biodiversity conservation

interventions as mentioned in the

BAP are included in relevant

2021-2024 1 million Various government

departments under

District Government

Deputy Commissioner


Pb P&D Dept.


78


that is not possible, then

aim to minimise loss; if

biodiversity loss is

unavoidable, impacts

should be managed to

maintain ecosystem

functions, including,

where feasible, through

the use of offsets.

development projects of different

depts. of GoPb.

8. Ecotourism

promoted

8.1. Strengthening of legal

and policy framework

for implementing

ecotourism as part of a

strategy to engender

the financial

sustainability of GTCIIP

rakhs.

• Change in the legal and policy

framework at the provincial level

2021-2030 20 million Pb FWFD

Tourism Development

Corp. of Pb

Private Sector

8.2. Initiation of a pilot

program for ecotourism

implementation in

GTCIIP rakhs.

• Agreements between the private

sector and FWFD officials for the

operation of ecotourism activities in

rakhs of GTCIIP

8.3. Provision of new

financing vehicles by

ensuring the alignment

of ecotourism activities

with biodiversity

conservation objectives.

• PAs implementing public use plans

9. Effective

governance of

rakhs

9.1. Multi-stakeholder BAP

Steering Committee

constituted.

2021-2030 2 million Provincial Line depts.,

WWF-Pakistan

HFI Pakistan


79


management

ensured

9.2. Regular progress

update by the Steering

Committee and

monitoring of BAP.

• Multiple sectors, agencies and

disciplines represented in the

Steering Committee

• Regular progress updates

District Authorities

Academia

Community

Representatives

10. A robust

monitoring,

reporting and

evaluation

mechanism in

place

10.1. Designate a suitable

professional from FWFD

to act as M&E Officer

• A suitable staff member from

FWFD deputed to serve as M&E

Officer based on his/her

qualification and experience

• Notification of M&E Officer

2021-2030 5 million FWFD

10.2. Develop in

consultation with the

stakeholders a

representative set of

biodiversity indicators

and monitoring

protocols.

• A consultative session of

stakeholders organised at the

district level including

representatives from provincial

government to identify landscape

level indicators

• ME framework and quarterly work

plans developed based on the pre-

identified indicators

2021-2023 1 million GoPb

Pb Line depts.; District

Authorities

10.3. Progressively align

and integrate reporting

products across

governments for

effective biodiversity

planning.

• Progress reports shared with

respective provincial and district

level authorities

• Biodiversity conservation

interventions included in the PC-1’s

of various government departments

2022-2030 15 million GoPb

Pb Line depts.; District

Authorities


80

Annex 2: Equipment Specifications

Equipment Specifications Quantity Cost

(USD)

4-wheel drive vehicle Toyota Hilux single cabin standard 4x4

(or any other comparable 4-wheel drive vehicle)

with Common-Rail Diesel 2755 cm3 Engine (D-4D)

One 37,500

Motorcycles Honda CG125 (or any other comparable model)

with 4-Stroke OHV Air Cooled Engine

Four 3,500

Field Equipment Night vision binoculars

Spotting scopes

Cameras with traps and tripods

GPS

Android-powered tablets

Drone camera

Field torches

Miscellaneous watch & ward gear

To be

determined in

consultation

with FWFD

9,000

TOTAL 50,000

Note: The procurement of equipment will follow standard procurement policies and procedures applicable for GTCIIP.


81

Annex 3: Field Offices Specifications

Specifications Quantity Cost (USD)

To be designed by the EDCM Consultant; each office to include at

least:

• 2 Rooms; sized 16 x 14 feet

• 1 Toilet & bathroom; sized 8 x 8 feet

• 1 Veranda; according to the rooms’ dimensions and

architectural design

Four 36,000

Furniture and furnishing for each office Four 4,000

TOTAL 40,000

Note: The procurement will follow standard procurement policies and procedures applicable for GTCIIP.

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