The impact of climate change has gripped the entire world, affecting every living being—whether marine, terrestrial, human, or animal. Among the hardest hit are fishermen, whose livelihoods are increasingly threatened by environmental degradation and human interference in marine ecosystems. The rapid decline in fish populations, driven by pollution and climate-related changes, poses severe risks to the future of the fishing industry.
Dwindling Marine Life: A Fisherman’s Perspective
Rising levels of ocean pollution and human activities have led to a steady decrease in aquatic life. Salman Ahmed, a seasoned fisherman, shared his concerns, recalling how the sea was once abundant with fish.
“Two decades ago, we could fill our boats with fish from the Karachi coast alone; we never had to venture elsewhere. Now, we travel as far as Gwadar in Balochistan, yet we struggle to find a good catch,” he lamented.
Expressing deep concern for the future, Salman noted that coastal areas like Rehri Goth and Ibrahim Hyderi, once thriving fishing hubs, are witnessing a drastic decline in marine life. “We fear for our children’s future. If things continue this way, in 20 or 25 years, there might be no fish left in the sea. That’s why we want our children to get an education and find jobs in other fields—otherwise, we will starve.”
Pollution and Overfishing: A Dire Warning
Shabana, a representative and social coordinator at the Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum, echoed these concerns in her conversation,. She pointed out that Karachi’s coastal waters, especially around Ibrahim Hyderi, are among the most affected due to increasing pollution.
“One of the biggest reasons for marine pollution is the dumping of waste into the sea. Every day, large amounts of garbage are discarded into the ocean, leading to mass deaths of marine creatures,” she explained.
Discussing the future of fishing communities, she warned that “for fishermen, the sea is their livelihood—it’s their ‘bowl’ of sustenance. But with the declining fish population, that bowl is gradually emptying, leaving thousands of families struggling to survive.”
Coastal Development and Mangrove Destruction
Saeed-ul-Islam, WWF Mangroves Program Manager, revealed alarming details about the ecological crisis in Rehri Goth and Ibrahim Hyderi. He blamed commercial activities and mangrove deforestation for the devastating decline in fish populations.
“Environmental changes, industrial waste, and unchecked coastal development have put the future of fishermen at extreme risk,” he said.
Dr. Ejaz Ahmed, an environmental expert, emphasized the critical role of mangrove forests in maintaining marine biodiversity.
“Mangroves serve as breeding grounds and shelters for small fish, protecting them from larger predators. Their destruction disrupts the marine ecosystem, leading to a sharp decline in fish populations,” he explained.
A Call for Urgent Action
The deteriorating situation in Rehri Goth and Ibrahim Hyderi serves as a wake-up call. Experts and fishermen alike are urging authorities to take immediate action to curb pollution, regulate coastal development, and protect mangrove forests. Without swift intervention, the centuries-old fishing profession—and the livelihoods of countless families—may soon become a thing of the past.
