Ahmed Khan Malik

The newly constituted board of Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoFHA), Karachi will work out a strategy to boost the fisheries production.

KoFHA boasts a deep-water harbor, receiving large fishing vessels laden with fresh catches. Its dedicated fish processing factories, about one dozen in number, cater primarily to exports, contributing significantly to Pakistan's seafood industry. "This focus on exports adds to the harbor's economic importance, showcasing its potential for further development," officials at the Fisheries Department told WealthPK. Of the 11 members, three are ex-officio (two from the federal government and one from the Sindh government), and one each from the Pakistan Fish Exporters Association, the local fishermen's association and the Sindh government. Section 6(2), read with Section 6(1) of the KoFHA Ordinance 1982, empowers the federal government to appoint the chairman and other members not exceeding five in number.

Despite its potential, KoFHA faces challenges such as limited utilization of the auction hall and a need for further infrastructure improvements. However, positive developments are underway, like the one with the formation of board, Nadeem Ghauri, Director of the Fisheries Department, told WealthPK. With its unique features, export focus, and ongoing development plans, KoFHA is poised for a bright future. By addressing the current challenges and capitalizing on its strengths, the harbor can become a thriving center for fish trading, processing, and exports, contributing significantly to Pakistan's economy and offering exciting opportunities for businesses, fishermen, and even tourists.

 He pointed out that the large auction hall, currently lying unused due to a lack of basic facilities, presents an exciting opportunity to revitalize the harbor. Upgrading this space could create a vibrant platform for fish trading, benefiting both fishermen and businesses. Under the new strategy, the renovation of harbor consists of three components – the modification of the auction hall, the installation of cold storage & freezing tunnels, and the creation of a business park. By improving the existing auction hall along with installing cold storage and freezing facilities, much fresher seafood will be available to the local market.

 In addition, the establishment of a business park will help improve the food processing chain and increase the value of processed seafood. As a result, it is expected to increase the income of local fishermen, promote the fisheries industry and expand exports to the overseas market. "Presently, Korangi Fish Harbor direly lacks the required facilities like fish auctions. Moreover, there are no security arrangements in place either," said Sarwar Siddiqui, Head of the Sindh Trawler Owners Association, an organization of deep-sea fishing trawler owners.

 He also proposed that a representative from his association should be included in the board of directors of the harbor to help identify and resolve issues in a timely manner. He said fish production from this harbor could be increased with more facilities and hoped that the new board would help realize the potential of this harbor for fisheries production and exports.

Credit: INP-WealthPk