KARACHI:

Sindh Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Muhammad Ali Malkani has said that the provincial government is taking all necessary steps to increase seafood exports and is in contact with the federal government in this regard.

Speaking during the Question Hour in the Sindh Assembly on Tuesday, Malkani replied to various written and supplementary questions from members. He informed the assembly that there are several hatcheries in Sindh for fish breeding, where seeds are sown. “We release fish seeds into rivers at the government level.” He said that efforts are being made to meet the standards set by the European Union to lift the ban on seafood exports, particularly for shrimp and fish.

Malkani said that those who set up factories for export of fisheries are provided with assistance, but no subsidies are given.

Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon requested Deputy Speaker Naveed Anthony to address the issue of some members asking irrelevant questions. Memon noted that there are existing rules for asking questions in a member’s absence.

MQM’s Dr Fauzia Hameed referred to the deplorable condition of fishermen’s colonies, urging the government to take notice. Aijaz Haq also pointed out that poor fishermen’s boats are sinking, and the government is not providing any facilities to help them. Abdul Waseem from MQM asked about the legal action taken against those using banned nets for fishing.

In response, Muhammad Ali Malkani said that while action is taken, the department lacks sufficient resources. He also acknowledged the absence of cold storage facilities but assured that the department will help the fishermen in this regard. ucted in collaboration with community-based organisations.

Meanwhile, parliamentary journalists made their voices heard in the assembly, protesting against the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) amendment and demanded its withdrawal.