GWADAR: Authorities have imposed new restrictions on local fishermen in view of the prevailing security situation, including a complete ban on fishing in certain areas during nighttime.
According to directives issued to the Fisheries Department, fishing will not be permitted at night within Gwadar’s Red Zone, the port area, the Pakistan Coast Guards camp vicinity and within a one-nautical-mile radius along to (coastline). Fishermen are strictly prohibited from engaging in any fishing activity within these limited areas during night hours.
Fishermen have been instructed to carry essential documents at all times while at sea, including a valid fishing license, national identity card, fisheries card and other required permits. They are also required to comply immediately with any signals or warnings issued by security personnel.
Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken under relevant laws against anyone violating these directives and violators will bear full responsibility for the consequences.
On the other hand, local fishermen have rejected the decision and expressed serious concerns. They stated that they are already facing difficulties due to strict security measures and what they describe as unnecessary restrictions and that the ban on night fishing will further harm their livelihoods. The fishermen have urged authorities to instead take action against illegal trawling.
It is worth noting that the restrictions come in the wake of a recent attack on Coast Guard personnel, in which three officials were killed. A video of the incident circulated widely on social media, and the Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack.
