KARACHI: There is no designated monitoring unit to watch implementation of approved strategy and for conducting periodic review at Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Islamabad office. Same is missing within other stakeholder organisations

During IMO audit activity it was observed that targets set against daily activities were partially achieved.  Implementation of approved targets and their periodic oversight was slack. Targets set for prevention of environmental pollution in referred strategy were observed by audit to be partially realised, too. Hence, audit team recommended that there should be designated responsible personnel both at Ministry office as well as in other stakeholder organisations to ensure proper implementation of marine safety strategy 2020 in respect of safety of life at sea and prevention of environmental pollution.  After identification of clear goals to be achieved for ensuring marine safety in light of IMO Code, comprehensive mechanism was rolled out in strategy approved in 2020 as mentioned to achieve goals of-independent audits of surveys/inspections/Port reception facilities. Effective oversight required over ROs performing statutory certifications on behalf of Administration.

Identifying unseaworthy and substandard ships and strengthening sanctioning regime. Thorough investigation of maritime casualties, determination of casual factors and taking preventive measures required. Periodical reviews of effectiveness of navigation stressed.  There is need of compliance of IMO, IHO and IALA guidelines when planning, operating and managing aids to navigation. There is need of audit and review of Port facility and terminals too. Capacity of MMD for Port State Control and reporting/implementation of national laws and IMO conventions urged in respect of ships calling Pakistan waters so that pre-requisites to joining regional MoU may be fulfilled.