A rare and heartwarming sight was reported near Gwadar on Monday when a group of at least six endangered Arabian humpback whales was seen swimming close to the coast.
The whales were spotted about 11 nautical miles south of the Gwadar headland, bringing joy to local fishermen and marine conservationists who witnessed the moment.
This sighting is being seen as a positive sign of improving marine biodiversity along Pakistan’s coastline.
The Arabian humpback whale is a very special species because, unlike most whales, it does not migrate to colder waters. Instead, it spends its entire life in the Arabian Sea, ranging between Yemen and Sri Lanka.
However, the species has faced serious challenges in the past. During the 1960s, Soviet whaling activities led to a sharp decline in their population, putting them on the endangered list.
Over the decades, their numbers have remained critically low, and every confirmed sighting brings renewed hope for their survival.
According to WWF Pakistan, the recent appearance of these whales near Gwadar is an encouraging indication that their population may be slowly recovering.
Conservation experts believe that increased awareness, reduced industrial activity in certain areas, and ongoing protection measures are helping marine ecosystems heal.
The event also serves as an important reminder of the need to continue safeguarding Pakistan’s marine life. Preserving the Arabian humpback whale and other endangered species is vital for maintaining the natural balance of the Arabian Sea, and for ensuring that future generations can continue to witness such magnificent creatures in the wild.
