The Sindh government has introduced a major relief package support fishermen, including a fuel subsidy scheme worth Rs515 million.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Murad Ali Shah, who said the initiative aims to provide immediate financial relief to fishing communities.
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The package targets fishermen operating in Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin, where increasing diesel prices have reduced fishing activity by around 20 percent.
How much each boat owner gets from Sindh Govt?
Officials said the subsidy will benefit 9,634 registered boats. Small boats with 20-horsepower engines will receive Rs200,000 each, covering 2,331 vessels under a Rs466.2 million allocation.
In addition, 488 boats with 10-horsepower engines will be given Rs100,000 each, with a separate allocation of Rs28.8 million under the scheme.
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Fishermen must complete online registration through the Directorate General Marine or the Karachi Fisheries Harbour Authority to become eligible for payments.
How Fishermen Gets Fuel Subsidy Amount?
Authorities said the subsidy amount will be transferred directly into verified bank accounts of registered boat owners to ensure transparency and efficiency.
To monitor implementation, a joint management committee under the Livestock and Fisheries Department Sindh will oversee the programme.
The chief minister said the move is part of broader efforts to protect livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on the fishing sector amid economic pressures.
Procedure for Registration & Licensing of Fishing Boats
To obtain a fishing boat registration and license, applicants must follow the steps below:
Application Submission
The applicant is required to submit a duly filled application form, countersigned by a sponsor, along with the following documents:
- Registration certificate from the Mercantile Marine Department (boat details)
- Annual permit/license (Rahdari) issued by Karachi Port Trust
- CNIC of the owner(s)
Boat Inspection
After submission, the concerned authority conducts a physical survey of the boat to verify its details and condition.
Fee Payment
Once the inspection is completed, a challan is issued through the National Bank for payment of registration and licensing fees.
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Issuance of Documents
- A Registration Certificate is issued with a validity of five years
- A License is issued with a validity of one year
Important Note
The Karachi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KFHA) does not issue new registrations or licenses. It only renews or issues licenses for boats that are already registered and previously licensed.
