by Summaiya Abid and Shoaib Abdul Razzaque, WWF-Pakistan

In the small coastal community of Kakapir, Pakistan, an unsung hero, Abdullah, strives relentlessly to safeguard endangered marine turtles. Immersed in this quest since he was twelve, his decades-long journey stands testament to his steadfast commitment to marine conservation.

Abdullah's journey began in his youth, assisting a relative at the Sindh Wildlife Department. He began monitoring marine turtles, collecting eggs, observing nesting behaviours, and reintroducing hatchlings to their marine habitat. Through these experiences, he developed a deep understanding of these marine animals’ challenges, driving his dedication to protecting them.

Abdullah has tackled countless efforts, from rescuing disoriented female turtles to handling scenarios where the turtles strayed due to physical constraints. The community rallied behind him, utilizing boats to release the disoriented adult female turtles into deeper waters. Abdullah also played a significant role in a research project supported by the International Chemical Industry. He recorded the number of adult turtles and the nesting temperature of green turtles to support the implementation of a small grant research project by WWF Pakistan, earning recognition and monetary compensation for his invaluable contribution. Since then, he has been volunteering protection of Green turtles at Hawksbay.

Adult Green turtles’ threats in their nesting grounds of Hawks Bay are multitudinous, from predators like dogs and poachers to human activities that disrupt their habitats. Beach development, marine debris, and disposable single-use plastics create formidable barriers for turtles, causing them to return to the sea without laying eggs. Fishing lines and nets cause deadly entanglements, while footfall on the beach compacts the sand, making it challenging for female turtles to prepare nesting chambers.

Hatchlings face significant perils, from getting entangled in disposable plastics to dealing with beach fires left behind by tourists. Human activities often damage nests and compact sand surfaces, preventing the hatchlings from successfully emerging. Abdullah vividly recalls an incident where he found about 70-80 hatchlings entangled in a ghost net in the nest, which he promptly removed and released the hatchlings into the sea.

Throughout his life, Abdullah has rescued countless turtles. However, in the past decade, he approximates releasing approximately five to seven disoriented adult female green turtles. A standout moment was when he intervened and boldly confronted a group in a poaching incident, engaging the poachers in a discussion about the ethical implications of their actions, eventually persuading them to release the hatchlings into the sea – yet confrontation does not always would result in the same outcomes!

Abdullah's efforts go beyond rescues. He actively influences the youth and the community, sensitizing them about the importance of conservation and encouraging beach cleanup initiatives. Inspired by his relentless endeavors, the Kakapir community has joined in his cause, demonstrating utmost respect towards the breeding beaches and playing an active role in turtle conservation.

When asked about his perspective on the situation at Hawks Bay, Abdullah emphasizes its importance as an optimal habitat that stands as a sanctuary for the Green turtles. However, adverse weather and oceanographic conditions and disturbances often lead to a decline in successful egg-laying. He firmly believes in protecting these creatures, given their dwindling population and the many threats they face. He asserts the moral responsibility, particularly from a religious standpoint, to preserve these creatures.

In the grand conservation scheme, individuals like Abdullah are of immense significance. They step in where conservation organizations face limitations, contributing to monitoring and protection endeavors. Their involvement is paramount in scaling up conservation activities, underscoring the essential role of community engagement in ensuring the survival of marine turtles in Pakistan. Abdullah's story is a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of individual commitment to conservation, and an urgent call for collective action to protect our marine biodiversity.

Read more in this article: Why coastal communities lay at the heart of conservation work in Pakistan - An untold story of Abdullah Mirbahir an activist of marine turtles at the Kakapir community