In a decisive move to protect marine life, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has ordered the removal of prohibited fishing nets from the sea, even if influential individuals are involved. This was announced by Provincial Adviser for Fisheries and Livestock, Syed Najmi Alam, during a ceremony to burn illegal nets in Ibrahim Hyderi. Addressing the gathering, Alam emphasized the destructive nature of the “Bolo Guju” net, stating, “This net is a fish killer and is completely banned. If we don’t remove it, there will be no fish left in our seas in a few years.”
He assured that regardless of the power or influence behind these illegal operations, they would be eliminated. Alam personally committed to overseeing the operations at sea. Najmi Alam also announced several initiatives to support the local fishing community.
These include the provision of residential colonies, the issuance of identification cards for fishermen, and the development of small jetties. He highlighted the installation of trackers on deep-sea boats to prevent fishermen from straying into Indian waters, thus avoiding arrests. The trackers will also provide storm warnings to ensure fishermen’s safety. Reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to the fishing community, Alam promised financial support to fishermen to sustain their businesses.
He directed the administration to submit a report every 15 days detailing the number of illegal nets removed, with the intention of prosecuting those responsible for their installation. Alam also called on the fishing community to assist in the fight against drug trafficking. He urged Town Chairman Nazir Bhutto to collaborate with the administration to eradicate drugs from the area and ensure the development of infrastructure, such as a new road to the fisheries. Town Chairman Nazir Ahmed Bhutto expressed his full support for the fishermen and reiterated his commitment to their development in partnership with the Sindh government.
He encouraged fishermen to participate actively in the elimination of illegal nets. The ceremony concluded with Alam, Bhutto, Vice Chairman Rafiq Jat, DG Marine Fisheries Ali Muhammad Mastoi, Director of Fisheries Dr. Asim, and other officials setting fire to the prohibited nets as a symbolic gesture of their crackdown on illegal fishing practices.
