Daily Times

Maritime sector is the world’s leading sector for creation of jobs; besides being one of the most effective economic development driver. Global consciousness of unprecedented environmental challenges and pressuresof growing population has diverted the attention of littorals from finite land resources to the opportunities offer by oceans and seas. Gunter’s idea of sustainable development though oceans and seas as an effective tool against emerging challenges of global development has been popularised as Blue economy. Oceans offer food, energy, water, minerals, trade, recreation and tourism opportunities; what else is required. International organizations like World Bank, UN, IMO, WWF are also emphasising on idea of building on sustainable maritime cluster to tap vast potentials of oceans.According to 2017 World Bank estimates, global economy accounts for US$24 trillion and out of which share of oceanic economic activities is US$1.5 trillion per annum.

The concept of blue growth has become an advancing agenda lately in Pakistan. Custodians of maritime domain; whether its naval leadership or Ministry of Maritime Affairs, are earnest towards promoting blue economy for sustainable national development in the country. Pakistan has been blessed with a unique delta as well as clear sandy beaches. The Arabian Sea is known as third largest marine resource rich area but we could nerve efficiently exploit its potential. Maritime sector has many things to offer. Estimated 21 million people live along the coast and broadly fishing, ports and shipping, ship breaking, extraction of salt, boat building and coastal recreation are some sectors which benefit local community directly. The coastal area has potential to generate economic dividends though eco-tourism, aqua or mari-culture, extraction of mineral and sea vegetation, oceanic energy, display and preservation of native culture and archaeological sites though developing maritime museums, ferry and cruise services. The resources also include endless renewable energy reserves in form of wind and solar energy and others.

In coming years, our dependence would gradually be increased on sea resources than those of the land. And maritime sector is the most sustainable window of opportunity for Pakistan to overcome emerging economic challenges through blue growth

Minister of Maritime Affairs has undertaken some meaningful meetings with representatives from Ministry of Railways, Defence, Defence Production, Petroleum and Food Security and Pakistan Navy. It was the very first step by MoMA towards developing inter-ministerial cooperation though a dedicated Committee on Blue Economy. Although, a number of issues with regards to shipping, seafarers, green port and waste management are currently under spotlight, but in order to tap real advantages from the maritime resources, Pakistan needs to focus on devising all inclusive maritime strategy based on marine spatial planning. There are other sectors/areas in maritime domain which are equally important and can contribute significantly towards blue growth drive, just to name a few; ship breaking, marine fisheries, coastal and maritime tourism, extraction of oceanic flora and fauna, boat building etc. In order to apply blue economy approach in true letter and spirit, it is critical to bring all tiers of maritime sector together at one forum and to promote maritime education, training and research for capacity building. Furthermore, overlapping issues between provinces and federal bodies; particularly in areas of fisheries, maritime tourism and implementation of environmental laws may be addressed through enhanced understanding and cooperation. Moving beyond national level, collaboration with neighbouring littorals to mitigate cross border maritime issues such as; illegal activities at sea, challenges of climate change and preservation of marine environment is also important.

Our future is inextricably linked to the oceans. Estimated population of Pakistan will be 251 million by year 2025 and 344 million by the year 2050. The increase population would require more food, jobs, energy and raw materials to sustain economic growth. Efficient utilisation of marine resources through maritime research,use of modern technology and innovative economic approach can yield huge benefits from seas towards which Allah Subhan-o-taala has directed us as, “And it is He who subjected the sea for you to eat from it tender meat and to extract from it ornaments which you wear. And you see the ships plowing through it, and [He subjected it] that you may seek of His bounty; and perhaps you will be grateful.” (Translation al Quran 16:14). As a matter of fact, in coming years, our dependence would gradually be increased on sea resources than those of the land. And maritime sector is the most sustainable window of opportunity for Pakistan to overcome emerging economic challenges through blue growth.

The writer is a maritime researcher at NCMPR, Bahria University