Three longline fishing boats put to sea

Govt, conservationist organisations say departure from fishing nets to reduce by-catch, help marine ecosystem

KARACHI:

The transition of gillnets to longline gears for commercial fishing is having a positive impact on the marine ecosystems, said the officials of the World Wildlife Fund-Pakistan (WWF-P), Sindh Fisheries Department and conservationists.

Longline fishing, or longlining, is a commercial fishing angling technique that uses a long main line with baited hooks attached at intervals via short branch lines called snoods. A snood is attached to the main line using a clip or swivel, with the hook at the other end.

Departure from the use of gillnets can reduce the harmful effects of overfishing by 85 per cent, allowing the fish stocks to rise and the fishermen to prosper.

According to WWF-P spokesperson the launching ceremony of three longline boats was held at Korangi Fish Harbor in Karachi.

Speakers at the event highlighted that switching from gillnet to longline gear has significantly reduced entanglement and mortality of endangered species of aquatic life including whale sharks, sea turtles and dolphins. These beneficial effects are benefiting the marine life and ecosystem.

Marine fishing is the main source of livelihood for the coastal communities, especially in Ibrahim Haideri and Rehri Goth coastal villages.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Marine and Coastal Fisheries Development Department Director Dr Asim Karim has said that marine life in Pakistan is facing serious threats from pollution to harmful fishing practices, loss of breeding habitats and overfishing. As a result, fish stocks are declining and negatively impacting marine species, especially endangered populations in marine waters. He said the government is working with conservation organizations and the federal government to promote sustainable fishing practices and to introduce new technologies.

The head of Engro Foundation, Fawad Soomro, highlighted the Sustainable Fisheries Entrepreneurship Project. He also emphasized the benefits of switching from gillnets to longline fishing gear, which has proven effective in reducing by catch. WWF-P Senior Manager Conservation Altaf Hussain Sheikh said that gillnets are harmful to breeding fish and other types of aquatic life.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 7^th, 2023.