Centre, Sindh join hands to tackle marine pollution

The decision was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Sindh Governor

ISLAMABAD: The federal government and the Sindh administration have agreed to launch a coordinated campaign to combat marine pollution, safeguard coastal ecosystems, and promote the sustainable growth of Pakistan’s blue economy.

The decision was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori’s successor, Governor Nehal Hashmi, where both sides reviewed the growing environmental challenges facing the country’s coastline and discussed their impact on marine biodiversity, fisheries, coastal communities, and critical infrastructure.

Speaking on the occasion, the maritime affairs minister said marine pollution had evolved into a major environmental, economic, and public health challenge. He noted that pollution was not only damaging coastal ecosystems but was also threatening livelihoods and economic activities dependent on marine resources.

The minister said the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, through its Marine Pollution Control Board, was already implementing measures to address the issue and proposed a joint meeting with the Sindh government and relevant provincial departments to develop a comprehensive response.

He identified the discharge of untreated sewage into the sea as one of the most serious threats to Pakistan’s marine environment, warning that the continuous release of wastewater was harming mangrove forests, fish habitats, coral ecosystems, and other sensitive coastal resources.

Emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation, he said protecting marine ecosystems was essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the country’s blue economy.

Governor Nehal Hashmi described marine pollution as a growing public health concern, particularly for residents of Karachi’s coastal communities, who face increasing health risks due to contaminated seawater. He stressed the need for stronger coordination among federal, provincial, and local authorities to improve wastewater management and prevent untreated sewage from reaching the sea.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to strengthen institutional coordination and jointly formulate long-term strategies aimed at reducing marine pollution, preserving coastal ecosystems, and supporting sustainable economic development through a healthier marine environment.