KARACHI: Sindh Governor Muhammad Nihal Hashmi, on Saturday, approved amendments to fisheries legislation, introducing stricter penalties and enforcement measures aimed at curbing illegal fishing and protecting marine ecosystems.
He gave his consent by signing the amended bill, already passed by Sindh Assembly. Below are key provisions of the Sindh Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2026:
Higher fines: Violations of fisheries regulations can now draw penalties up to Rupees 100,000 (USD360). Unlicensed fishing: Authorities will take strict action against individuals engaged in fishing without valid licences.
Banned equipment: Use of prohibited fishing nets and illegal catch methods will incur heavy fines.
Processing plants: Operating fish processing units or factories without a licence may result in fines of up to 50,000 rupees.
Illegal trade: Crackdown on the unlawful sale, purchase and trade of fish and related products.
Environmental violations: Penalties introduced for industrial units discharging waste into water bodies, contributing to marine pollution.
Officials say the amendments are designed to strengthen regulatory oversight, promote sustainable fishing and protect marine biodiversity in Sindh, a key hub of Pakistan’s fisheries sector.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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