Karachi mangrove loss near Mai Kolachi raises flood risk
Suparco satellite images from 2000 and 2025 show mangroves and tidal creeks near Mai Kolachi Bypass converted to reclaimed land, raising flood and erosion concerns.
Suparco satellite images from 2000 and 2025 show mangroves and tidal creeks near Karachi’s Mai Kolachi Bypass replaced by reclaimed land and urban plots.
The space agency said clearance weakens natural coastal protection and raises risks of localised flooding, shoreline instability and land subsidence.
Climate policy specialist Mohammad Saleem Shaikh urged federal and Sindh action on enforcement, assessments and restoration with native species.
Senator Sherry Rehman and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab did not comment when approached.
Separately, Suparco data for Shah Bandar in Sujawal showed mangrove cover up 115% from a 2019 baseline of 116.46 hectares.