Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi discussed enhanced cooperation to address marine pollution and strengthen protection of coastal ecosystems.
The discussion took place during a meeting at the minister’s chamber in the National Assembly, where both sides emphasised closer coordination between federal and provincial institutions on environmental management and maritime sustainability.
The minister said he would convene a meeting of the Marine Pollution Control Board during his upcoming visit to Karachi to review ongoing efforts and brief him on institutional responses to marine litter and coastal degradation.
Governor Hashmi stressed improved coordination between federal and provincial authorities, highlighting waste management, conservation of marine resources and sustainable economic activity as key to the environmental and economic well-being of coastal communities in Sindh.
Junaid Chaudhry said healthy oceans play a critical role in regulating the climate, supporting biodiversity and sustaining coastal livelihoods, including mangrove ecosystems and fisheries.
He said Karachi Port Trust (KPT) was carrying out routine clean-up operations in port waters and adjoining areas as part of ongoing maintenance and environmental management activities.
Referring the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) assessments, Junaid Chaudhry said an estimated 19–23 million tonnes of plastic waste enter aquatic ecosystems annually worldwide, underscoring the scale of marine pollution challenges faced by coastal states.
Global studies, including those supported by the World Bank, indicate that plastic typically accounts for a significant share of marine litter, often exceeding 50% by item count, although proportions vary widely by location and methodology, he added.
Junaid Chaudhry said marine litter poses a serious threat to ecosystems, fisheries and coastal communities, and called for coordinated action between federal and provincial authorities to improve waste management systems and reduce pollution at source.
He also noted the broader economic potential of transitioning toward a circular economy, including improved recycling systems and resource recovery, which international studies suggest could create employment opportunities while reducing environmental pressures.
The meeting agreed on the need to strengthen institutional coordination to improve waste management, safeguard marine resources and promote sustainable maritime development.
