PMSA, BFD launch operation to check illegal fishing in Gwadar

Karachi: Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) along with Balochistan Fisheries Department (BFD) on Sunday launched a focused operation “HUM AHANGI (harmony)” against illegal fishing in Gwadar, the hub of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

On Sunday, the PMSA units carried out patrolling at open sea, south of Gwadar, Pasni, Pishukan, Ganz and Jiwani sectors to search for trawlers carrying out illegal trawling or using banned nets, said an official statement.

During the operation, multiple trawlers were boarded and searched. Trawling vessels, operating south west of Gwadar and Jiwani were intercepted.

Focused Operation “HUM AHANGI” by Pakistan Maritime Security Agency and BFD is a testament to the fact that they are vigilant and remain committed to preventing illegal trawling in Pakistani territorial waters, the statement read.

Last month, the government accepted all the ‘legitimate’ demands of the demonstrators in Gwadar who were demanding their rights. The demonstrators had clarified that they were not against the CPEC and China’s role in Pakistan’s development and only were demanding their rights.

The government also reviewed progress on development projects in Gwadar. They decided to establish Gwadar University, Gwadar Cadet College, Vocational Training Center, supply of clean drinking water and other issues.

In a tweet, Pakistani Planning Minister Asad Umar announced that all development projects in Gwadar were reviewed during the detailed meeting with the Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Qudus Bizinjo and his team.

Prime Minister Imran Khan recently stated that the authorities would take “strong action against illegal fishing by trawlers,” adding that he would also speak to the provincial Chief Minister on the matter.