Balochistan’s fishing industry is set for significant expansion, with several government initiatives underway. The province’s current marine fishing capacity of $500 million could potentially reach $100 billion. In 2023, 137,000 metric tons of fish were caught, valued at $105 million.
The sector currently employs 600,000 people, with 82,583 registered fishermen. New projects include a marine ambulance service, the construction of 8 coastal workshops, and a model fish market in Pasni.
For 2024-2025, the government has approved the establishment of complexes and the DDSC scheme, with a total cost of Rs50 million. Additionally, 100 million rupees have been allocated for the digitalization of the Fisheries Department.
Freshwater fishing, currently at 5.7% of production (approximately 1,563 metric tons), is expected to grow with the construction of 100 dams. So far, 66 dams have been completed, with a capacity to store 0.320 million acre-feet of water and produce 273 million tons of fish.
The Mirani and Hub dams alone can produce 1,000 metric tons of fish. Canal projects like Pat Feeder, Kirthar, and Kachhi are expected to significantly boost fish production.
A fish hatchery in Dera Murad Jamali, built at a cost of 50 million rupees, is playing a key role in promoting fish farming in the province.
