Taunsa Barrage. 22/03/96; Punjab; 6,576 ha; 30°42'N 070°50'E. Wildlife Sanctuary. A large reservoir on the Indus River, constructed for irrigation purposes. Vegetation includes riverine forest and numerous species of aquatic plants. A very important wintering area for waterfowl, notably Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans, etc.) which breed in the area, and a staging area for some species of cranes and shorebirds. Human activities include commercial fishing, irrigation, reed harvesting, recreation, and in adjacent areas agriculture, livestock grazing, and forestry. Ramsar site no. 817.