Rising fuel costs hit Sindh fishermen hard

Diesel price surge threatens livelihoods, local economy; fishermen demand subsidies

KARACHI:

Soaring diesel and petrol prices are putting Sindh's fishing community under severe strain, forcing some small-scale fishermen to halt operations and raising fears of widening poverty along the province's coastal belt.

Fishermen from Keamari, Ibrahim Hyderi, Rehri Goth, and other coastal areas report that rising fuel prices have sharply increased the cost of operating fishing boats, most of which rely heavily on diesel for sea expeditions.

According to Ibrahim Hyderi spokesperson for the Coastal Media Centre at Kemal Shah, fishing incomes were already limited due to inflation, marine pollution, and declining fish stocks. The added burden of expensive fuel is now making it increasingly difficult for fishermen to venture into the sea.

"Many small fishermen have been forced to leave their boats idle, directly affecting their household income," he said. The spokesperson added that the local fishing economy is facing mounting pressure, while families worry about basic sustenance as the current crisis continues.

Fishermen are urging the government to provide subsidies on diesel or offer targeted relief to help them continue their livelihood. They warn that if fuel costs remain unchecked, unemployment and poverty in Sindh's coastal communities could rise dramatically, bringing serious social and economic consequences.