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As I want to end on a positive note, I should add that there are many NGOs working in the delta region, trying to save what little remains of the mangroves. In fact, it is the current focus area for the UNDP’s Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme. The SGP is giving funding to the Aga Khan Planning and Building Services-Pakistan (AKPBS-P). It is aiming to promote the livelihoods of rural communities in the coastal towns and surrounding villages through the installation of energy efficient products.
The AKPBS-P tries to involve grass roots organizations, especially the fishing community. The main target group is the women of fishing communities and most of the energy efficient products such as fuel efficient stoves, Fanoos (energy efficient lamps) and Muhafiz (food conservator) and other technologies have been designed to involve them as the men and boys are mostly away from their homes fishing. The males have also provided with fish storage products which were installed in their boats and trawlers. By introducing energy efficient products, the NGO is hoping to take pressure off the remaining mangroves. These stoves and lamps are at least providing some rays of hope for the people of these devastated communities.
Ismailimail 