The proposal to establish a Sindh Maritime Police has sparked renewed debate on beach safety and governance after multiple tragic drowning incidents along Karachi’s coastline. During a recent Sindh Assembly session, lawmakers examined coastal security failures, public transport expansion, environmental safety, and administrative accountability, highlighting the urgent need for structured maritime law enforcement.
Why Sindh Maritime Police Is Being Considered
Beach safety in Karachi has long been a recurring concern, but recent drownings at Himalaya Beach intensified scrutiny. During the Assembly debate, legislators questioned existing safety arrangements and demanded accountability from authorities responsible for protecting beachgoers.
The idea of a Sindh Maritime Police emerged as a long-term institutional solution aimed at preventing such tragedies and strengthening law enforcement in coastal areas.
Beach Safety Incidents Trigger Assembly Debate
An elected representative raised the issue following the deaths of five visitors who drowned due to rough tides and undercurrents. The lawmaker demanded to know what protective measures were actually in place at public beaches.
In response, interior officials acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and admitted that current systems remain inadequate despite enforcement attempts.
Current Coastal Security Measures
At present, maritime security responsibilities are primarily handled by federal agencies. However, the Sindh government has deployed:
- Police pickets at major beaches
- Lifeguards during peak seasons
- Temporary restrictions under Section 144
Despite these measures, drownings continue every year, exposing gaps in enforcement and public compliance.
How Sindh Maritime Police Could Improve Beach Security
According to provincial authorities, the creation of a Sindh Maritime Police could dramatically improve beach safety by introducing specialized coastal policing.
Proposed Responsibilities of Sindh Maritime Police
If approved, the force could:
- Monitor swimming zones and tides
- Enforce safety regulations
- Coordinate with Coast Guards and rescue agencies
- Prevent illegal boating and unsafe recreation
- Respond quickly to drowning emergencies
This would shift beach security from a seasonal response to a permanent institutional framework.
Challenges in Enforcing Section 144
Officials admitted that enforcing public safety laws remains extremely difficult. Many visitors ignore warnings, swim in restricted zones, or enter the water without safety equipment.
A dedicated Sindh Maritime Police unit could ensure consistent enforcement, public awareness, and rapid intervention.
Sindh Government’s Coordination With Federal Agencies
To make the proposal viable, provincial authorities plan to formally engage federal maritime security agencies. A letter is expected to be sent seeking stronger coordination and operational support.
This collaborative model could allow the Sindh Maritime Police to focus on civilian safety while federal forces handle broader maritime defense.
Public Transport Expansion: People’s Bus Service
Beyond coastal issues, the Sindh Assembly also discussed transportation reforms. Officials confirmed that the People’s Bus Service will soon extend operations to Hyderabad and eventually across all major roads in Sindh.
New Routes Planned for Hyderabad
Proposed routes include:
- Gaari Khata to Guddu Chowk
- Tando Mohammad Khan Road
These expansions aim to reduce traffic congestion and provide affordable commuting options for urban residents.
Traffic Management and Road Safety Concerns
While the government praised existing traffic administration efforts, officials stressed the need for systematic reforms. In accidents involving heavy vehicles and motorcycles, responsibility must be determined individually rather than through blanket blame.
Environmental and Mineral Safety Concerns Raised
Several lawmakers used the question hour to highlight environmental risks and regulatory lapses.
Allegations of Contaminated Salt Sales
One representative alleged that salt extracted from sewage-contaminated water was being sold in markets. While officials said no formal complaints had been received, they promised immediate action if evidence surfaced.
Uncertainty Around Sindh’s Mineral Resources
Although a nationwide geological survey has been conducted, the government admitted that Sindh’s mineral quality and reserves remain largely unverified. This uncertainty continues to delay safe and profitable mineral development.
Recruitment Transparency and Merit System
Concerns were also raised regarding recruitment for government posts in Grades 14 and 16.
Officials clarified that all appointments were made through the Sindh Public Service Commission, ensuring transparency and merit-based hiring.
Waste Management and Governance Issues
Urban waste management became another focal point of debate, especially regarding service delivery despite regular public charges.
Solid Waste Management Performance
Critics argued that garbage collection remains poor across several constituencies. In response, government representatives cited:
- Deployment of additional sanitary workers
- Installation of new waste bins
- Resolution of previously reported complaints
The issue highlighted the ongoing gap between service expectations and ground realities.
University Autonomy and Student Access Concerns
Lawmakers also debated proposals granting greater autonomy to a major Karachi-based research institute. Critics warned that excessive independence could limit access for ordinary students and reduce public accountability.
Karachi’s Water Crisis Remains Unresolved
Persistent water shortages across Karachi were highlighted as a growing urban emergency. Although lawmakers appreciated recently completed infrastructure repairs, they stressed the need for long-term water management reforms.
Why Sindh Maritime Police Matters for the Future
Among all topics discussed, the proposal for a Sindh Maritime Police stood out as a potentially transformative policy. Karachi’s beaches attract thousands of visitors every year, yet basic safety infrastructure remains insufficient.
A dedicated force could:
- Save lives
- Restore public confidence
- Reduce annual drowning statistics
- Professionalize coastal safety enforcement
Conclusion
The Sindh Assembly debate revealed systemic gaps in beach safety, transport planning, environmental oversight, and urban management. While short-term measures offer limited relief, institutional solutions like the Sindh Maritime Police could mark a turning point in protecting lives along Sindh’s coastline.
If implemented effectively, this initiative could redefine maritime governance, making public safety a permanent priority rather than a seasonal concern.
