Pakistan’s Marine Mammal Bycatch Reduction Efforts Meet US Standards for Export Fisheries

ISLAMABAD: In a significant move towards marine conservation, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has recognized Pakistan’s efforts to align its marine mammal protection measures with international standards. After evaluating Pakistan’s fisheries management practices, the NMFS has determined that Pakistan’s measures for reducing marine mammal bycatch are comparable in effectiveness to those of the United States.

The decision follows a detailed review of Pakistan’s application and responses, including its prohibition on the intentional killing of marine mammals in commercial fisheries, the implementation of a marine mammal bycatch monitoring and reporting program, and regulations targeting the reduction of marine mammal mortality and serious injury.

Key Highlights of Pakistan’s Marine Mammal Protection Measures:

1. Prohibition on Killing Marine Mammals:
   Pakistan has enacted strict regulations to prevent the intentional killing or injury of marine mammals within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Government of Pakistan issued Notification No. MFD/DDFT/MMPA-2024/150-164, banning the “take” of marine mammals, including hunting, capturing, and harassment.

2. Marine Mammal Bycatch Reduction Program:
   Pakistan has implemented a comprehensive bycatch monitoring program, including a 50% observer coverage, 25% fisherman interviews, and 25% vessel logbooks. Although the program is relatively new, it shows promise in monitoring and reducing bycatch, especially in the tuna and gillnet fisheries.

3. Voluntary Shift to Subsurface Gillnet Fishing:
   In 2014, Pakistan’s fishermen voluntarily shifted to subsurface gillnet fishing, which has significantly reduced dolphin entanglements in the tuna gillnet fishery. This proactive change has been instrumental in lowering marine mammal mortality in the region.

4. Bycatch Reporting and Mitigation Measures:
   Pakistan has introduced mandatory reporting of marine mammal bycatch, including using logbooks and survey forms for fishermen. In addition, the country is actively exploring new mitigation measures such as gear conversion projects and voluntary fishing closures during key breeding seasons.

5. International Collaboration and Compliance with Regional Guidelines:
   Pakistan is a member of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), which sets guidelines for marine mammal protection. It adheres to IOTC resolutions that require gillnets to be set at a depth of at least 2 meters and mandates reporting of marine mammal bycatch.

While the bycatch data collected so far remains limited, the NMFS is optimistic about the potential for Pakistan’s fisheries management program to reduce marine mammal interactions further. The country’s collaboration with international bodies and its proactive approach to gear modification are key steps toward safeguarding marine mammal populations.

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This recognition aligns Pakistan with global standards for marine mammal protection and sets an example for other nations in balancing sustainable fisheries with environmental conservation.