Tharparkar, 5th June 2025: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) have partnered to successfully launch Pakistan’s first desert-region Flora Conservation Station in Tharparkar.

This pioneering initiative serves as a sanctuary for the unique plant species of the region, many of which were identified during the Ecological Baseline Survey conducted by IUCN under the project “Partnership for Biodiversity Conservation in Thar.” This project is being implemented in partnership with Thar Foundation, the CSR arm of SECMC and other Block II entities. Located in the wilderness, this is the first facility of its kind in Pakistan, where IUCN will work to restore and conserve the unique flora native to the region’s diverse ecosystems including, Sandy desert, Great Rann of Kutch, and Karoonjhar Mountain Hills.

The launch ceremony was graced by Mr. Amir Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer of SECMC; Mr. Naveed Ali Soomro, Manager Sindh Programme at IUCN Pakistan; and other senior management representatives from both the organizations.

The Thar Desert, like many arid landscapes, is a living ecosystem that supports biodiversity and interestingly, it also has the highest human population among all deserts in the world. Despite its harsh climate, the region is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including herbs, shrubs, and trees that provide vital ecosystem services essential for human wellbeing. IUCN documented over 149 plant species in the region, including many endemic and rare species as well as two globally threatened species, Indian Bdellium Tree and Desert Teak, in its 2020-2022 survey, the first of its kind in Tharparkar.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Amir Iqbal stated: “With its critical role in enhancing Pakistan’s energy security and rich ecological heritage, Thar stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and national progress. As a socially responsible company, SECMC remains committed to uplifting local communities while leading sustainable development in the region. The launch of Pakistan’s first-ever Flora Conservation Station, in partnership with our valued partner IUCN, is another milestone in our journey to safeguard Thar’s unique biodiversity.”

Mr. Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative, IUCN Pakistan, in a statement shared on the occasion, said, “The Thar flora includes some of the most unique and threatened plant species in the world, including those listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN is not only contributing to local ecological resilience but also to global biodiversity targets.

Mr. Naveed Ali Soomro highlighted that, “The Flora Conservation Station is a result of rigorous scientific research and sustained collaboration. It exemplifies IUCN’s commitment to nature-based solutions and inclusive partnerships. Through this initiative, we aim not only to protect vulnerable plant species but also to foster local awareness and stewardship for the fragile ecosystems of Thar.”

The IUCN–SECMC partnership builds upon four years of dedicated conservation work, including a detailed ecological baseline survey of Tharparkar’s flora and fauna, vulture conservation initiatives, community awareness outreach, and environmental education. With on-ground management provided by implementation partner Baanhn Beli, the launch of the Flora Conservation Station marks the beginning of a new phase of actionable measures for biodiversity protection in Tharparkar.