Rs90m project aims to save turtles

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced the launch of a Rs90 million project to protect sea turtles during shrimp trawling operations. The initiative aims to conserve marine biodiversity and ensure the long-term sustainability of Pakistan's ocean resources.

According to an official statement issued on Thursday, the project includes the free distribution and installation of standardised Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) at no cost to fisherman, training workshops for trawler crews, and data collection to assess their impact on shrimp catch and net performance.

A Turtle Excluder Device is a specialised grid fitted into shrimp trawl nets that allows sea turtles and other large marine animals to escape while retaining shrimp. The minister said the introduction of TEDs will reduce the accidental capture of endangered turtles and help Pakistan regain US certification – key to resuming shrimp exports to the American market.

Chaudhry said the project aligns with Pakistan's global commitments on marine sustainability and seafood traceability. "This initiative will demonstrate Pakistan's commitment to responsible marine management and enhance its reputation in global seafood trade," he said.

He noted that shrimp trawling often traps non-target species, and turtles caught in nets can drown. The minister directed the Karachi Fisheries Harbour Authority, Sindh Fisheries Department, and Marine Fisheries Department to ensure full TED compliance at sea and dockside.

"One hundred percent TED compliance and credible enforcement will be ensured. Continued non-compliance risks further deterioration of Pakistan's seafood exports under international traceability regimes," he warned.

Chaudhry said Pakistan's shrimp exports currently stand at around $100 million annually. Full TED compliance and US recertification could triple exports and open access to high-value markets like the European Union and Canada.