People in Dera Ismail Khan rallied with flowers, poetry and unity to save the Indus River, raising awareness against pollution.
D.I. Khan Unites to Save Indus:
The streets of Dera Ismail Khan were alive with color, culture, and worry on a sunny Friday morning. To raise their voices for the protection of the River Indus, also known as Darya-e-Sindh, people from all walks of life joined together for a reason. A Seraiki literary and cultural organization called Sapat Sindhu Salhaar organized this vital rally, which is held annually to raise awareness. The rally this year was brimming with passion and a profound affection for the river. The occasion was more than just a protest; it represented solidarity, culture, and environmental consciousness.
Cultural Rally with Deep Purpose:
A vibrant and cultural atmosphere was created when the rally started at Imamia Gate with the Seraiki folk dance, jhumar, and the beating of traditional dhol (drums). Poets, educators, students, journalists, and activists were among the hundreds who enthusiastically joined in.
The players strolled calmly toward the riverbank while carrying flower baskets. They dispersed flower petals into the water when they got to the river. This quiet and considerate deed was a protest against pollution and a sign of affection for the river. They provided flowers in place of trash, demonstrating that the river should be treated carefully and not as a site for dumping.
Poetry, Anthem and Passion:
The event officially started with the Seraiki national anthem, followed by powerful poetry recitations. Poets praised the beauty, history, and importance of the Indus River. Their words touched hearts and reminded everyone that this river is not just water. It is life, culture, and history.
Why the Indus River Matters:
One of the world’s oldest and most significant rivers is the Indus. After flowing from Tibet through India, it reaches Pakistan, crosses the nation, and eventually empties into the Arabian Sea. Millions of people in Pakistan receive water from this river, which also aids in agricultural growth. In many areas, it serves as the primary source of water for drinking, farming, and energy.
Unfortunately, there is a danger to this priceless river. The water is becoming hazardous and unclean due to pollution from sewage, residences, and enterprises. The river’s fish and other creatures are dying. People who use this water for drinking and washing are also getting sick. This is why saving the river has become such an urgent issue.
Voices of Wisdom and Change:
Many respected speakers addressed the crowd during the rally, sharing their views and suggestions. Gulzar Ahmad, the patron of the Arbabi-Danish Forum, said that politicians must listen to local thinkers, teachers, and poets when making environmental decisions. He said, “Those who love this land and understand it can give better advice. Our writers and poets are the real voice of the people.”
Professor Habib Mohana focused on the role of science and technology. He said that modern machines and smart methods can help clean the river. “We must use new technology to fix old problems,” he added.
Professor Arif talked about how people all over the world are realizing that nature should not be misused. He explained that the river is drying up not because of nature, but because of human greed and bad planning. “We tried to control nature, but now we must learn to live with it in peace,” he said.
Peaceful Message:
One of the most emotional moments of the event came when Seraiki leader Mouz Arain addressed the crowd. He said that this rally was not just a protest. It is a movement filled with love and care.
“When we offer flowers to the river, we are showing our respect. But we are also taking responsibility,” he said.
He reminded everyone that the Seraiki culture is deeply connected to the Indus River. Saving the river means saving the identity and language of the people.
Importance of Education and Awareness:
Abu Al-Muazzam Turabi, a senior journalist and president of the Arbabi-Danish Forum, gave a strong and inspiring speech. He said that for any real change to happen, the Seraiki people must focus on education, awareness, and new ideas.
He said, “Our future depends on how well we prepare our youth. We must teach them to love nature and to protect it.” He also requested the media to highlight environmental issues more actively. “If the media talks more about rivers and forests, people will listen, and action will follow,” he added.
River in Danger:
One of the major concerns discussed at the rally was the rising pollution in the Indus River. In many areas of Pakistan, sewage and dirty factory water are being dumped into rivers without any cleaning. This is not only dangerous for aquatic life but also for humans. People living near the river are suffering from skin diseases, stomach problems, and other serious health issues. If pollution continues, the river may soon become too dirty to use.
What Needs to Be Done?
During the rally, speakers and participants shared practical steps that can be taken to protect the Indus River:
- Strict Laws: The government should make and enforce strong laws to stop pollution.
- Sewage Treatment: Proper systems must be built in cities to treat wastewater before it enters the river.
- Public Education: People should be informed about how pollution harms everyone.
- Tree Plantation: Trees should be planted along the riverbanks to protect soil and improve air and water quality.
- Local Involvement: Schools, religious centres, and families should all take part in keeping the river clean.
- Alternative Production: Industries should be encouraged to adopt cleaner and greener production methods.
Save the Indus, Save the Future:
Dera Ismail Khan’s incident made a strong statement. We have to save the Indus River immediately, or it will be lost forever. The petals of the flowers that were thrown into the river represented responsibility, hope, and peace in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.
Everybody has a part to play, including local communities and the government. The Indus River can be saved with unity, education, regulations, and a love of the natural world. Even if the rally is over, the movement is only getting started. And there is always hope for a brighter, greener, and cleaner future as long as there are individuals who care.
