The Indus River dolphin Platanista minor is a flagship species, which is listed as Endangered (EN) in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Indus River dolphin is only found in the Indus River system, with the only viable population located within the geographical boundaries of Pakistan, with only a few dolphins having been reported in the Beas River in India, a tributary of the Indus. Indus river dolphin conservation is challenging because of the enormous pressures on its habitat, and in the future, as water infrastructure plans develop and the challenges of climate change exacerbate, the viability of the species needs to be ensured through collective actions. The Indus River Dolphin Conservation Adoption Project supported by the Engro-Foundation aims to enhance the efforts to protect the Indus River dolphin and its innate habitat and halt the threats by using advanced tools and approaches. The project focuses on its core habitat between the Taunsa and Sukkur barrages.
The primary objective of this consultancy is to raise awareness among youth and local communities about the unique and invaluable biodiversity of the Indus River. It focuses on highlighting the significance of the Indus River Dolphin and other riverine ecosystems, along with the challenges they face. The assignment involves assessing and enhancing the existing educational materials and displays at the Taunsa Conservation and Information Centre, addressing degradation issues, and promoting the inclusion,
enrichment, and modernization of the Centre. This includes the development of new displays and interactive elements centered on the Indus River and its biodiversity. The overall goal is to create an engaging and informative environment that fosters greater understanding and appreciation of the diverse ecosystems of the Indus River.
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