The Balochistan Fisheries Department has announced the distribution of 92 modern fibreglass boats to low-income fishermen in Gwadar under a provincial subsidy programme, officials said.

The 24-foot vessels, part of the "Green Fibreglass Boats Scheme," are equipped with 85-90 horsepower engines and modern insulated holds designed to preserve catch quality and reduce spoilage, according to a report carried by Gwadar Pro.

Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch, a member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Gwadar, was briefed on the initiative during a visit to the Surbandar fisheries office.

Fisheries officials stated that the total cost for each boat is set at 5.295 million rupees ($19,000). Under the scheme’s terms, the Balochistan government will cover 90 per cent of the cost.

Registered fishermen are required to pay the remaining 10 per cent—approximately 529,500 rupees—through instalments over a four-year period.

"This scheme is an important step towards improving the economic conditions of the coastal fishing community and will help modernise the fisheries sector," Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman said.

The distribution will be conducted through a transparent balloting process overseen by a committee led by the Director General of Fisheries.

Quotas have been allocated based on the number of registered fishermen in various coastal districts, with six boats specifically reserved for the Surbandar area.

Authorities have urged eligible fishermen to submit applications at their respective Fisheries Assistant Director offices within the specified timeframe.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China