Green Boat Scheme launched in Jiwani, aid distributed to storm-affected fishermen
In line with Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti’s vision for the welfare of coastal communities, the provincial government organized a ceremony in Jiwani to distribute boats under the Green Boat Scheme and provide financial aid to fishermen affected by recent sea storms.
The event was attended by MPA Gwadar Mulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch, Assistant Commissioner Jiwani Tariq Imam, Director Marine Fisheries Gwadar Ahmed Nadeem, businessman Seth Chiragh Kalmati, Assistant Directors Fisheries Bashir Kakar and Shah Fahad, Vice Chairman Municipal Committee Jiwani Aman Jan Aman, local councilors, union representatives, district administration officials, and a large number of fishermen.
Through a transparent draw, eight fishermen were selected to receive modern boats under the Green Boat Scheme. Officials explained that the initiative aims to provide fishermen with improved facilities, enhance livelihood opportunities, strengthen the fishing sector, and stabilize the coastal economy.
In addition, financial aid cheques were distributed among fishermen whose livelihoods had been disrupted by the recent sea storm, helping them recover from losses caused by the natural disaster.
Addressing the gathering, MPA Hidayat-ur-Rehman, Director Ahmed Nadeem, and Assistant Director Bashir Kakar emphasized that fishing is a vital source of livelihood for thousands along Balochistan’s coast. They praised the Chief Minister’s commitment to coastal development and fishermen’s welfare, noting that schemes like Green Boat not only safeguard livelihoods but also boost the local economy.
The ceremony was conducted by Inspector Fisheries Jiwani Noor Baloch. Fishermen welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude to the provincial government, Fisheries Department, district administration, and their representatives. They highlighted the need for further support in terms of boats, jetties, landing points, cold storage, modern equipment, and basic facilities to strengthen the sector.
The community expressed hope that under CM Sarfraz Bugti’s leadership, such welfare measures will expand, creating more employment opportunities and improving living standards across Balochistan’s coastal belt.