Resumption of fishing

In a pragmatic move, Sindh government has lifted the customary ban on fishing in June and July in view of the growing economic hardships facing the fishermen community because of the lockdown in place for more than two months. Fishing in the sea is banned in June and July as this period is breeding season for the marine species. This year there is an entirely different situation engendered by the coronavirus pandemic. Forced by their worsening plight, fishermen had lately been trying to convince the government of the need to lift the suspension on fishing through public and their trade representatives to enable them to resume fishing activities so that they could meet the needs of their families. Exporters had backed the demand of the fishermen as they too were feeling the pinch due to the prolonged suspension of fishing. Now all those associated with fishing in one way or another will heave a sigh of relief.

The government, in consultation with all stakeholders, has taken the decision to allow resumption of fishing and other associated activities, and has prepared the relevant SOPs. The authorities have asked fishermen and all those engaged in related activities to strictly observe social distancing and follow other preventive measures, because in this way not only would they be protecting themselves from the deadly virus but would be saving the whole society from contracting the Covid-19 illness. Taking preventive steps is thus more a social responsibility than individual responsibility. As things stand now it is only through collective efforts that the pernicious virus can be defeated. Doctors, paramedics and ambulance drivers are risking their lives to save those suffering from the contagion. Many medics and paramedics have died while saving fellow human beings. We should be paying tribute to these noble souls by following SOPs.

A prolonged strict lockdown would result in a super monster pandemic of coronavirus, bankruptcy and unemployment. 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 4^th, 2020.

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