The 6th Marine Pollution Control Board meeting, with participation from DG Ports & Shipping Riazuddin Khan, Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed SI (M) S.Bt (Retd) and other key federal and provincial stakeholders, underscored the alarming rise in marine pollution caused by untreated sewage discharge into the sea, severely impacting marine life and fisheries.

While chairing the meeting, the federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, specifically highlighted pollution threatening marine ecosystems and mangrove forests, which provide food and fodder for marine life. He said the pollution is not only killing marine fisheries but also harming the fishermen who earn a living from fishing in the sea. He said that without improving wastewater management, environmental destruction cannot be stopped. He also said that coastal belt safety is a government priority, linked to the economy and national food security.

The meeting emphasised urgent enforcement, directing strict action against industries releasing untreated effluents, including potential sealing of non-compliant units. A pilot intervention at Lalazar was proposed to develop a replicable treatment model.

Stakeholders were urged to ensure the operational status of wastewater treatment plants, with SEPA tasked with intensifying inspections. Representatives from the Korangi and SITE industrial zones will be engaged in the next session.

A proposal by Dubai-based Oasis to invest in a 10 MGD treatment plant was welcomed as a key opportunity for public-private partnership, subject to the resolution of land issues.

The meeting called for stronger provincial ownership and coordinated efforts to implement a sustainable Marine Pollution Control Policy.