Islands of Pakistan
Pakistan’s geographical diversity extends far beyond its mountains and plains; it also includes a series of natural and man-made islands located along its 1,046 km coastline on the Arabian Sea. These islands are situated primarily near the coasts of Sindh (Karachi) and Balochistan (Makran Coast). From rocky outcrops to ecologically sensitive coral islands, these landmasses offer strategic, economic, and environmental significance. Some are home to fishing communities, some serve as naval installations, and others remain uninhabited, preserving fragile marine ecosystems.
Notable events like the formation of Zalzala Koh after the 2013 Balochistan earthquake or the conservation efforts on Astola Island demonstrate their dynamic nature and importance. This article explores all known islands of Pakistan, categorized by province, with detailed insights into each.
A. Sindh Province (Near Karachi)
1. Baba and Bhit Islands
Located in Karachi Harbor, these are two densely populated islands primarily inhabited by the fishing community. Accessible via boat from Keamari, these islands are among the oldest settlements in Karachi. They lack basic infrastructure but are rich in cultural heritage.
2. Bukkur Island
Situated in the Indus River near Sukkur, Bukkur is more of a river island than a sea island. It is home to military installations and historic structures, including the remnants of Sukkur Fort. The island played a significant role during British colonial rule and remains strategically important.
3. Bundal Island
Located off the coast of DHA Karachi, Bundal is a large island that surfaces during low tide and is often submerged during high tide. It gained national attention due to proposed real estate developments, which sparked environmental protests over concerns for the coastal ecosystem and the livelihood of local fishing communities.
4. Buddo Island
Also near Bundal, Buddo Island is covered with mangroves and plays a vital ecological role. Like Bundal, it became part of controversial mega-development projects in the past, raising questions about environmental sustainability and government land jurisdiction.
5. Clifton Oyster Rocks
These are small rocky islets located near the Clifton beach in Karachi. Formerly restricted by the Pakistan Navy, they were opened to the public after the Navy’s relocation. The site has been part of Karachi’s urban beautification projects and is visible from the beachfront.
6. Churna Island
A small uninhabited island near Mubarak Village, Churna is famous for water sports including scuba diving, snorkeling, and free diving. It is surrounded by coral reefs and marine life, making it a hub for eco-tourism and marine biology research.
7. Dhari Island
Little is known publicly about Dhari Island due to limited access and lack of detailed research. It lies within the Sindh coastal waters and may host mangrove vegetation and fishing activity.
8. Hawkesbay Island
Often confused with the mainland beach area, there are small rocky outcrops near Hawkesbay Beach referred to as islands. These are sometimes visible during low tide but are not true standalone landmasses.
9. Khiprianwala Island
A lesser-known island located near Karachi, Khiprianwala serves as a fishing ground and is sometimes used for informal maritime activities. It is not inhabited and lacks infrastructure.
10. Manora Island
Technically a peninsula now due to land reclamation, Manora is historically significant and houses the Manora Lighthouse and a Pakistan Navy base. It features colonial-era architecture and beaches and is connected to Karachi via a causeway. It played a crucial role in port defense during British and later Pakistani naval history.
11. Pimo (Tido) Island
Located off the Karachi coast, this island is scarcely documented but is used by fishermen. Its ecological status remains under-researched.
12. Shams Pir
Situated near the Port of Karachi, this is a small fishing village island accessible by boat. It has mangroves, sandy beaches, and a growing community. The island was once settled by refugees after the partition of India.
B. Balochistan Province (Makran Coast)
1. Astola Island (Jazira Haft Talar)
Pakistan’s largest offshore island, located about 39 km southeast of Pasni. Also known as the “Island of the Seven Hills,” Astola is uninhabited and known for its unique biodiversity. It is home to endangered green turtles, coral reefs, and seabird nesting sites. In 2017, it was declared Pakistan’s first Marine Protected Area, enhancing its conservation value.
2. Zalzala Koh (now submerged)
This island emerged suddenly from the sea following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Awaran District, Balochistan, in September 2013. Created by underwater mud volcano activity, Zalzala Koh rose 20 meters above sea level and attracted global media. However, it started eroding shortly afterward and has since submerged.
3. Malan Island (Sandy Island)
This is a mud volcano island located offshore from Hingol National Park. It occasionally emerges due to volcanic activity and disappears again due to erosion and tides. Its temporary nature and formation mechanism make it a subject of geological interest.
4. Ormara Island
Located near Ormara city, this island is more of a rocky extension of the mainland. Ormara is strategically located between Karachi and Gwadar and is home to the Pakistan Navy’s Jinnah Naval Base.
5. Gwadar Islands
The Gwadar region features several small rocky outcrops and sandbars near the coast. These are mostly uninhabited and serve as landmarks for marine navigation. Their importance is increasing due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and port development projects in the area.
6. Kappar Islands
Located along the Makran coast, these islands are lesser-known and largely unexplored. They are thought to contain small rocky formations that may support coastal and marine biodiversity. Scientific surveys are limited.
The islands of Pakistan, though often overlooked, play a crucial role in the nation’s geography, ecology, defense, and potential maritime economy. While islands like Astola and Churna hold ecological and tourism significance, others like Manora and Bukkur offer historical and strategic relevance. Emerging islands like Zalzala Koh serve as reminders of the region’s tectonic volatility, while controversial projects on islands like Bundal and Buddo spark important discussions about sustainability and environmental ethics.
As interest grows in Pakistan’s maritime domain through initiatives like the Blue Economy and CPEC, there is a pressing need to balance development with conservation. These islands must be documented, protected, and strategically utilized to benefit both local communities and national interests.