Quetta: Deputy Commissioner Hub, Juma Dad Mandokhail on Friday said that the fundamental issues being faced by the fishermen of the coastal settlement of Dam would be addressed on a priority basis.
He added that drinking water facilities would be provided to the residents of Winder’s coastal fishing settlements under PSDP schemes.
He made these remarks while addressing an open forum (Khuli Katcheri) held to discuss the issues being faced by the fishermen of Dam, a coastal settlement in Tehsil Winder, Sonmiani.
The Deputy Commissioner listened attentively to the fisherman’s concerns and assured them of a resolution, promising an inquiry into their complaints.
He issued directives requiring all contractors and relevant departments associated with ongoing PSDP development projects to submit reports at the DC office on Monday.
During the open forum, the Deputy Commissioner stated that the administration would formulate a comprehensive plan in a systematic manner to address the highlighted issues, schemes involving a pumping station and new pipelines extending from the Winder Dam canal to the coastal settlement of Dam would be included in the PSDP.
He pledged to resolve the basic problems of Dam Bandar’s residents, including issues related to the sewerage system..
Fishermen complained to the administrative official that, despite the approval of schemes worth billions of rupees, the impoverished fishermen associated with the industry remained deprived of the benefits of these development projects.
Demands were raised for immediate, effective, and indiscriminate action against trawlers illegally entering Balochistan’s maritime boundaries and launches engaged in illegal fishing.
Representatives of the fishermen, local elders, and councilors stated that conserving marine life and fish stocks is vital not only for fishermen but also for Balochistan’s economy and the future of coming generations.
The seafood industry, a major earner of foreign exchange for the national economy lacks basic facilities, ranging from boat-building infrastructure to seafood processing units, if government institutions improve governance and curb corruption, the fishing industry can play a pivotal role in stabilizing the national economy.
During an open forum, the Deputy Commissioner assured the participating fishermen that, in his capacity as an administrative officer, he would take action on these issues.