Modernizing Fishing sector in Pakistan: The Way forward

Abstract

Blue economy of a country depends on its ability of utilize maritime resources in an effective manner. World community especially sea connected countries are benefiting from marine resources and demand of fishery products is increasing world over. Fishing sector is providing sustainable livelihood to population settled along the coastal areas. Pakistan is yet to recognize its true potential in terms of blue economy. Like other branches of maritime sector, fisheries sector has also seen decline in past few decades. Fishing industry in Pakistan has not performed according to its potential due to over exploitation of marine resources, lack of stock assessment, poor management practices, polluted marine ecosystem, lack of handling facilities at fish harbours, poor hygienic conditions both at sea and in harbours coupled with old fishing and preservation methods. Governance issues are also adding to the problem. Different departments are working under various laws and ordinances enforced by provincial as well as federal government separately for control and monitoring of fishing sector. Although, these Acts and Ordinances are in vogue but are not strictly practiced as the quality control, harbour operations, hygienic conditions, development of coastal areas and pollution control are the lowest.