ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Saturday signed a landmark contract for the installation of a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) on Pakistani fishing vessels, marking a major step towards strengthening maritime governance, enhancing maritime security, and improving the safety of fishermen.
The contract signing ceremony was held at the PMSA Headquarters in Karachi. Secretary Defence Lieutenant General (Retd) Muhammad Ali attended the event as the chief guest.
According to a PMSA statement, the VMS project will deliver multiple benefits, including improved safety and security for fishermen, enhanced maritime domain awareness, and the sustainable management and exploitation of marine resources across Pakistan’s maritime zones and beyond.
Representatives from the federal and provincial governments, along with key stakeholders from the maritime sector, attended the ceremony.
The PMSA said the signing of the VMS contract reflects its commitment to adopting modern technologies and measures to safeguard Pakistan’s maritime interests and protect the country’s vital marine resources.
Maritime experts said VMS is a satellite and communication system used worldwide to monitor vessels. It tracks a boat’s speed, direction, and movement in real time, similar to an online tracking system, and also supports enforcement of fisheries laws.
The system will also act as a safety shield for fishermen.
In an emergency, pressing a single button will enable rescue agencies to locate a boat in distress. It will further help detect boats operating without personal safety gear or firefighting equipment, and crack down on the night-time distribution of banned nets from illegal jetties.
