Gwadar bans nets larger than No 25 to protect juvenile fish from 15 July to 15 August

GWADAR: In line with the vision of Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti for protecting natural resources, sustainable development, environment-friendly policies and good governance, an important public meeting was held under the chairmanship of Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Naqeebullah Kakar. It was attended by various groups of fishermen, the Fisheries Department, other relevant institutions and fish factory owners.

The meeting took important decisions, all by consensus, on a ban on catching juvenile fish (locally called “beech chum”), protection of marine resources, prevention of illegal fishing and protection of the interests of fishermen.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Zahoor Baloch, Director Fisheries Ahmed Nadeem, SP Gwadar Wahid Baloch, Gwadar Municipal Committee Chairman Majid Johar, fish factory owners and a large number of representatives of the fishing community from Sarbandan, Pishkan and Gwadar attended the meeting.

Complete ban on nets larger than No 25

After detailed consultation, all parties agreed that only No 25 nets will be allowed from 15 July to 15 August. The use of larger nets will be completely banned. The meeting stressed that the use of illegal nets seriously harms marine life, especially stocks of young fish (beech chum), which could affect the fishing sector in the future.

Deputy Commissioner Naqeebullah Kakar made it clear that the district administration would ensure the law is applied without discrimination. Strict legal action will be taken against boat captains, fish factories and shops using nets larger than the prescribed size. In case of violation, the illegal catch will be seized, the factory or shop concerned will be sealed and heavy fines will be imposed on those responsible.

The Deputy Commissioner said the aim of the district administration was not to affect anyone’s livelihood, but to protect marine resources, put the fishing sector on a lasting footing and secure natural fish stocks for future generations. He reiterated that all decisions would be taken in accordance with the law, after consultation and in the public interest.

The participants, fish factory owners and fishermen’s representatives praised the balanced, wise and consultative role of the district administration and expressed full satisfaction with the decisions. They described the steps taken under the Deputy Commissioner’s leadership as a positive and timely move towards protecting marine resources and the interests of fishermen and improving the fishing system. They assured the district administration of their full cooperation.

Photo: courtesy DGPR Balochistan