River Mangal’s Ecosystem at Risk

Dilawar Khan Tanoli

Abbottabad: The River Mangal, meandering along the borders of Abbottabad and Mansehra districts, originates from the Abbottabad mountains, gracefully joining Tarbela Lake through picturesque locations like Hussainiya, Ziarat Mera, Behali, Jinkiari, Sherbai, Shaheedabad, and Tandara, covering an approximate length of 40 kilometres. With a steady flow of about 20 cubic feet per second, this river has been a vital water source for the region, sustaining a diverse ecosystem.

Around 25 years ago, when locals would venture into the waters of the River Mangal, they were met with an environment of pristine clarity. The water, once suitable for drinking, also teemed with a variety of fish, providing both sustenance and recreation for the communities along its banks. Sadly, my recent observation during the COVID-19 period revealed a stark contrast—the once-clear waters had lost their transparency, and the absence of fish painted a troubling picture.

The degradation of Mangal’s water quality stems from the irresponsible disposal of garbage and pollutants by the settlements in its vicinity. Recognizing the gravity of this environmental issue, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as the authority tasked with safeguarding our natural resources, must intervene to curb further pollution and ensure the protection of Mangal’s waters.

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Compounding the problem, illegal fishing practices using electricity, bombs, and chemicals have led to the decimation of fish populations over the past two decades. This rampant activity, constituting a violation of the Fisheries Ordinance, calls for immediate attention from the Provincial Fisheries Department. I earnestly request the department to enforce regulations, issue licenses for legal fishing, and take proactive steps to preserve the biodiversity of Mangal. A collective effort is essential to prevent further decline and rejuvenate this once-thriving ecosystem.

In response to this environmental challenge, a local society, comprised of volunteers from surrounding villages, has been established. We are committed to collaborating with concerned agencies and authorities to address the situation and ensure the sustainable future of River Mangal. We stand ready to support any initiatives taken for the preservation of Mangal’s waters and the restoration of its diverse fish populations.