Fishing Net Industry in Karachi: A Cultural and Economic Perspective

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Karachi, being the largest coastal city of Pakistan, has a rich fishing heritage that dates back centuries. The fishing net industry in Karachi is not just an economic activity but a cultural tradition passed down through generations of fishing communities along the Arabian Sea coastline.

The manufacturing and repair of fishing nets in Karachi provide livelihood to thousands of families in coastal areas like Kemari, Ibrahim Hyderi, and Rehri Goth. Local artisans use traditional techniques combined with modern materials to create durable nets suitable for various fishing methods practiced in the region.

Traditional fishing nets used in Karachi include gill nets, cast nets, and seine nets, each designed for specific fishing conditions and target species. The knowledge of net making and repair is typically transferred from elders to younger generations, preserving this important cultural practice.

During major fishing seasons, the net-making activity intensifies, with entire families participating in the process. This communal activity strengthens social bonds and maintains the cultural identity of fishing communities in Karachi.