A rare Indo-Pacific finless porpoise has been found dead along the coastal stretch between Gwadar and Ormara, deepening concern among marine conservation groups about the rapid decline of vulnerable species in Balochistan’s waters.
The porpoise, already considered highly at risk of extinction, was discovered on the shoreline earlier this week. Officials said the repeated deaths of the species underscore growing threats to marine ecosystems along Balochistan’s coast.
According to an initial assessment by the Fisheries Department, the dolphin’s death was likely linked to rising pollution, illegal trawling and the use of banned plastic nets. Marine experts have long said these practices pose severe risks to dolphins, turtles and other marine life.
Renowned marine biologist Abdul Rahim Baloch said deaths of porpoises and other dolphin species in Balochistan’s waters were becoming increasingly common. He said illegal fishing trawlers and underwater noise were proving “disastrous” for marine creatures, while dozens of dolphins and turtles die annually after becoming trapped in plastic nets. If such incidents continue, he warned, the marine ecological balance of the region could be severely disrupted.
Marine life expert Zarif Baloch said Balochistan’s warm coastal waters were once regarded as among the safest sanctuaries for dolphins, particularly from October to January when large pods were regularly seen. The discovery of another dead dolphin in Ormara, he said, indicated that conditions were “rapidly worsening.” He described the area as formerly serving as a natural nursery for the species.
Earlier, local journalist Saeed Buzdar Baloch shared a video from the Gwadar coastline showing dozens of dolphins travelling together in a caravan-like formation, a sight that drew widespread attention online. Conservationists say such sightings highlight both the richness of Balochistan’s marine biodiversity and the urgent need for stronger protection measures.
Environmental observers warn that unless enforcement against illegal fishing improves and marine pollution is reduced, the decline of vulnerable species could accelerate, driving the Indo-Pacific finless porpoise closer to disappearance along Balochistan’s coast.