National Party Delegation Meets DG Fisheries in Gwadar, Demands Reforms to Support Local Fishermen
Gwadar:A high-level delegation of the National Party, led by Provincial Fisheries Secretary Adam Qadir Bakhsh, met with Director General of Fisheries Balochistan, Qaim Lashari, at his office in Gwadar to discuss the pressing issues faced by fishermen and propose sectoral reforms.
The delegation included Muhammad Hayatan, District General Secretary of the National Party Gwadar, and senior leader Majeed Abdullah. The members congratulated Mr. Lashari on assuming the role of DG Fisheries and welcomed him to Gwadar.
During the meeting, the delegation highlighted the critical challenges faced by fishermen in coastal regions, particularly in Gwadar, Kundmalir, Ball, Kalmat, Charbandan, Kappar, and Ganz. They urged the establishment of six (6) new fisheries centers in these areas to provide essential facilities and modernize the sector.
The delegation pointed out the lack of progress in operationalizing the Fisheries Force, which had previously been granted official status. They also raised concerns over the incomplete repair of seven (7) gunboats and the delay in the procurement of new ones.
Additionally, the delegation proposed the deployment of **Artificial Coral Reefs** in coastal waters to help regenerate marine life and curb illegal fishing. Fisheries Secretary Adam Qadir Bakhsh handed over copies of two letters addressed to the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the Director General of the WFO (Islamabad), outlining the key issues and proposed solutions in the province’s fisheries sector.
The National Party also expressed concern over serious violations of the Balochistan Fisheries Ordinance, where some registered vessels under the BFD (Balochistan Fisheries Department) were reportedly using illegal nets. They demanded immediate cancellation of such vessels’ registrations.
DG Fisheries Qaim Lashari assured the delegation of his commitment to addressing these challenges. He emphasized the significant contribution of the fisheries sector to both the local economy and national exports. Lashari promised coordinated efforts with relevant agencies such as Pakistan Coast Guards and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency to strengthen patrols and prevent illegal fishing practices.
Also present at the meeting were Executive Engineer B\&R Ehtesham Baloch, Fisheries Director Ahmed Nadeem, and Assistant Director Shah Fahad.
