A dead French turtle, an endangered marine species, was found washed ashore on Karachi’s Clifton beach on Friday. Experts say it died after eating plastics near the shore.

Fisherman Sujagg Forum Chairman Muhammad Baksh Jatt told Aaj News that every year, in February and March, marine turtles migrate to Karachi beaches to lay eggs on the sandy beaches of Hawksbay and Sandspit.

But the beaches have not been made safe for turtles and their eggs, says Baksh.

Plastic is the biggest source of marine pollution.

While the world values the special breed of French turtles, Pakistan has failed to protect them, said Baksh.

He said the turtle, which was found dead on the beach, probably ate plastic when it came closer to the seashore and died. Its carcass was washed ashore.

This dead turtle appeared on the beach at night, but no marine authority took notice of it, he said.

Karachi’s coastal line has received carcasses of marine species on numerous occasions before.

In March 2022, a carcass of a giant whale was found at Karachi’s Manora beach. It died due to marine pollution.

Karachi’s 70 km-long coastlines is being polluted by several factors including the pumping of untreated sewerage water into the sea, oil spills, and disposal of plastic waste.

If the authorities do not take steps to mitigate marine pollution, marine life will be in grave danger, he said.