Sindh

‘Most of boats brought ashore, rest on the way’

Fishermen's representative says taking precautionary measures ahead of cyclone

Aftab Khan June 13, 2023

Fishing boats seen anchored at the Karachi Fish Harbour following the ban imposed on coastal activities ahead of cyclonic storm Biparjoy over the Arabian Sea. PHOTO: JALAL QURESHI / EXPRESS

KARACHI:

Nearly 70% of fishing boats and launches departing from Karachi Fish Harbor, Baba Bhit, Saleh Abad, and Shams Island for deepsea fishing have returned. These vessels, which had been at sea for a month, were notified via radio frequency (VHF) about cyclone Biparjoyand advised to seek shelter.

Fishermen Cooperative Society Chairman Zahid Ibrahim Bhatti, of the, explained that there is an annual fishing ban from June 1st to July 31st. However, this year, fishermen were permitted to continue fishing until June 20th. Bhatti mentioned that more significant launches scheduled for a monthlong fishing expedition were halted a few days ago due to the unusual sea activity caused by the cyclone.

Smaller boats, including those used by daily wage fishermen, were also advised to refrain from venturing into the sea since Sunday morning. Existing launches in the deep sea were informed about the changing weather conditions and subsequently returned.

Most vessels embarked from Karachi Fish Harbor, while those departing from Baba Bhit, Saleh Abad, and Shams Island were contacted through their NGO regarding the cyclone. Boats and launches heading to Keti Bandar, Kharo Chan, and Ghorra Bari from Ibrahim Hyderi and Rehrri Goth have already returned to their jetties.

The Fisheries chairman confirmed that every launch has a wireless system, facilitating accessible communication. Boats and launches heading towards the coastal areas of Baluchistan were informed via VHF, and the Baluchistan Fishery also disseminated messages regarding the cyclone.

Around 70% of launches have already returned, while those in the deep sea were notified about Cyclone Biparjoyand advised to find a safe location. Bhatti further stated that fishing activities were permitted until June 20th this year, as approved by the Chief Minister of Sindh. However, due to the cyclone, fishermen can avail of this allowance only until the ban takes effect in two da