Karachi (Web Desk): An Olive Ridley sea turtle has been found dead at Clifton Beach, while the exact cause of its death remains unknown.
According to a report, these turtles are found in the Arabian Sea. However, over the past two decades, the number of Olive Ridley turtles visiting Pakistan’s coast, particularly Karachi, for breeding has declined. It is suspected that the dead turtle may have died after becoming entangled in fishing nets or getting trapped in the sea.
In recent days, two Olive Ridley turtles caught in fishermen’s nets near Jiwani were safely released back into the sea.
This species travels thousands of miles in search of food and breeding grounds. Research conducted in a neighbouring country using a GPS tag on a turtle revealed that it crossed the Arabian Sea and stayed in Oman for breeding.
The Fishermen Sujag Forum expressed grief over the turtle’s death at Clifton Beach, warning that plastic bags and waste in the sea pose a serious threat to the survival of marine life.
According to the forum’s chairman, protecting marine life while preserving livelihood opportunities for fishermen is essential. He also stressed the need for research in Pakistan into the movement and survival of sea turtles.