Call to modernise coastal and deep-sea fisheries

Scientists and fisheries experts have proposed the government to modernise coastal and deep-sea fisheries through provision of improved harvesting and post-harvesting facilities like cold storage and modern markets for fish and fish products. They floated this proposal at the 'National Symposium on Fisheries' organised by Pakistan Fisheries Society in collaboration with Zoology Department of Government College University Lahore. They also compiled necessary recommendations for the development of fisheries sector.
The symposium also recommended relaxation in procurement of tax-free machinery and equipment for Mari-culture. Full-fledged hatcheries for shrimp, sea bream, red bream, tuna and other fast-growing fishes may be established to propagate the culture of valuable seafood items. It was also demanded to establish research and training institute on fisheries and Mari-culture.
The construction and improvement of landing jetties/centres at important sites must be ensured and priority should be given to coastal water oceanographic research. It was also demanded of the government to establish co-operative societies for fishermen to strengthen the fisheries sector. The government should extend tax holiday for fish farming for another 10-year.
Director General Fisheries, Dr Muhammad Ayub said that all the provinces must be given representation in fisheries commissionerate.
He stressed the need for creating awareness on benefits of nutritive value of fish to increase the per capita fish consumption, which is presently 2-kg. The provision of vocational training to fishermen regarding use of modern fishing techniques should also be ensured, he added.
He said that survey of fish and fisheries sources in the country should be conducted to assess the actual potential and subsequently develop the management plans. He urged the need for provision of facilities for fish quality control as per sanitary and phytosanitary requirements.
He said the aquaculture studies must continue to diversify the culture of economically important sea-weeds, crustaceans such as, lobsters, crabs, planktonic crustaceans, molluscs (such as oyster and pearl oyster) and echinoderms, etc Advanced training must be arranged for scientists by initiating aquaculture-training programmes in the region. He also emphasised the need for creating awareness among general public about coastal aquaculture reserves. In order to develop seafood items, conservation strategy should be evolved for protection of mangroves. Installation of treatment facilities must be made mandatory for all industrial units in all big cities, he said.
He also demanded of the government to take steps for setting up of fish disease diagnostic laboratories in the country.
He said the symposium also provided an opportunity to experts to exchange information and knowledge on conservation of Mahaseer fish and other aspects of fisheries and aquaculture.