Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Monday said more than 58,000 kilogrammes of floating waste had been removed from Karachi harbour during an intensified clean-up campaign launched under the “Cleaner Port, Healthier Marine Ecosystem” initiative. He said the campaign was launched to curb marine pollution, protect coastal biodiversity, and promote a blue circular economy.

He said the campaign was launched to curb marine pollution, protect coastal biodiversity, and promote a blue circular economy.

The minister said the clean-up operation, carried out by the Karachi Port Trust during the first two weeks of May, covered key harbour locations, including East Wharf, West Wharf, oil piers, and Boat Basin Jetty.

According to official figures, 58,450kg of waste, mostly plastic and marine debris, was collected through 159 boat sorties involving 487 personnel. The waste was later disposed of through the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board under environmental protocols.

Mr Chaudhry said the initiative formed part of broader efforts to treat marine waste as a recoverable economic resource rather than merely a pollutant.

He added that the fisheries and aquaculture sectors could help reduce marine plastic leakage through recycling and upcycling practices.

He said used fishing nets could be converted into new products, while fish waste could be processed into fertilisers, feed, and other bio products. This could create economic opportunities for small and medium enterprises working under circular economy models.

The minister warned that untreated urban waste flowing through drainage systems into coastal waters remained a major source of marine pollution.

He said this posed risks to biodiversity, fisheries, and port operations.

Mr Chaudhry said the waste recovered from Karachi harbour could generate an estimated economic value ranging between $7,000 and $32,000 if properly segregated and recycled. A mid-range estimate placed its worth at around $17,535.

Mr Chaudhry emphasised the need for improved waste segregation and stronger recycling infrastructure at ports to maximise both environmental and economic benefits.

He added that continued harbour clean-up efforts were essential for protecting marine life, ensuring navigational safety, and maintaining sustainable port environments.

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