Curbing sea intrusion in the Indus Delta

Project title: Natural resource-based conservation management and community livelihood: Possible role of mangroves in curbing sea intrusion in the Indus Delta

Location: Indus Delta (Sub Division Ketibunder and Karochann, Thatta District)

Duration: 2012 – 2019

Project background: This project, aimed at replanting mangroves, was designed in response to the Government of Sindh's desire to combat land degradation caused by sea intrusion in the coastal areas of Sindh and to provide alternative sources of livelihoods to largely marginalised communities residing in the area. This project builds upon ongoing successful cooperation between IUCN and the Sindh Forest Department on other projects. Expected outcomes from this project include the reclamation of waterlogged and saline agricultural areas on the Sindh coast. In addition, forestry wealth will be enhanced and future threats from cyclones and tsunamis will be reduced. 

Objectives of the project:

• Protect coastal areas from accelerated sea intrusion and erosion through non-engineered structural measures (such as mangrove plantations)
• Protect coastal areas from cyclones and tsunamis 
• Support community livelihoods by diversifying household income generation options and access to service in ways sustainable to the fragile ecosystem

Expected outputs:

• Established 50,000 hectares of mangroves/inland protective plantations
• Raised 4.0 million container plants in the nurseries
• Community mobilisation and incentive programme undertaken in coordination with the Sindh Forest Department
• Research and Development Programme implemented jointly with the Sindh Forest Department

Donor: Government of Sindh through Sindh Forest Department