Environmental Action Taken in Gwadar After Death of Four Rare Turtles

Gwadar:In a significant environmental move, the Balochistan Environmental Protection Department has imposed fines of **PKR 100,000 each** on two fish processing companies—**BK Trading** (formerly Zalan Company) and **Ocean Three Star**—for violating the **Balochistan Environmental Protection Act 2012** following the death of **four endangered turtles** along the **Dimizar coastline** on **April 9, 2025**.

According to official details, the dead turtles were found near **industrial wastewater outlets** associated with the companies, raising serious concerns about **marine pollution and toxic discharges**. Preliminary investigations and expert biological assessments have linked the deaths to **industrial contamination**.

The environmental department issued formal notices to both companies, citing not only violations of local environmental laws but also breaches of the **National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS)**. The notice further highlighted that both companies had previously been directed to **reduce emissions and improve compliance**, instructions they failed to follow.

Both firms are required to deposit the fines within **seven days**, or face a **daily penalty of PKR 10,000** for non-compliance. The move is being lauded as a **strong step toward marine life protection** and a **clear message** about enforcing environmental accountability along Pakistan’s coastal zones.