Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi have reached an agreement to launch coordinated efforts to combat marine pollution, protect coastal ecosystems, and strengthen the blue economy. The decision was made during a meeting in the minister’s office, where the leaders discussed the worsening state of marine pollution along the coastline and its implications for marine biodiversity, fisheries, coastal communities, and critical infrastructure.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Chaudhry emphasized that marine pollution has evolved into a multidimensional challenge affecting not just environmental degradation but also livelihoods, economic activity, and public health in coastal regions. The Minister highlighted the efforts of the Marine Pollution Control Board and proposed a meeting with the Sindh government and relevant provincial departments to prepare a coordinated response.

Minister Chaudhry expressed particular concern over the discharge of untreated sewage into the sea, citing it as a severe threat to the marine environment. He noted that the continuous flow of untreated wastewater is damaging sensitive ecosystems such as mangrove forests and coral reefs, while also impacting fish habitats and fisheries.

Governor Hashmi pointed out that marine pollution poses a major public health concern, particularly in Karachi, where communities face increasing health risks from polluted coastal waters. He called for stronger cooperation among federal, provincial, and local authorities to improve wastewater management and prevent untreated sewage from entering the sea.

The meeting concluded with both leaders agreeing to enhance institutional coordination and develop long-term measures to curb pollution, protect coastal ecosystems, and support the sustainable growth of the blue economy.