Islamabad: International Day of Caves and Karst was observed today [Sunday]. Caves and karst landscapes cover nearly a quarter of the Earth's land surface and provide drinking water to more than a billion people.

According to Radio Pakistan, the theme of the day this year is "Explore, Understand and Protect: Towards Sustainable Management of Caves and Karst." This theme emphasizes the importance of exploration and protection of these natural resources, aiming towards their sustainable management.

Caves and karst landscapes play a vital role in the global ecosystem, significantly impacting biodiversity and water supply. The observance of this day aims to raise awareness about the geological and ecological significance of caves and karst systems, encouraging efforts to preserve and protect these environments for future generations.

The international day serves as a reminder of the critical need to manage these natural landscapes responsibly, ensuring they continue to provide essential resources and maintain their ecological functions.