A high-level meeting of the Sindh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah at the Chief Minister House, resulted in key decisions aimed at providing relief to the province’s fishing community.
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In a major move, the Sindh government approved a Rs515 million fuel subsidy package to support fishermen affected by rising diesel prices. The relief initiative will benefit fishermen in key coastal districts including Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin.
Addressing the meeting, the chief minister stated that the government is providing immediate financial support to sustain the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on fishing. He announced a one-time payment to cover fuel expenses for two months, following reports that increased diesel prices had led to a 20 percent decline in fishing activities.
Under the approved scheme, a total of 9,634 registered boats will receive subsidies. Among them, 2,331 small coastal boats equipped with 20-horsepower engines will be granted Rs200,000 per boat, with a total allocation of Rs466.2 million. Additionally, 488 boats with 10-horsepower engines will receive Rs100,000 each, amounting to Rs28.8 million.
To ensure transparency and efficiency, the cabinet decided that all subsidy payments will be made digitally. Fishermen will be required to complete online registration through the office of the Director General Marine or the Karachi Fisheries Harbour Authority. Once verification is completed, funds will be directly transferred into the bank accounts of boat owners.
The monitoring of the subsidy program will be carried out by a joint management committee comprising the Livestock and Fisheries Department, ensuring strict oversight and transparency in fund distribution.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring that financial assistance reaches deserving beneficiaries through a transparent and accountable system.
