Gadani Jetty Turns Pink as Experts Warn of Ecological Threat
GADANI – In a rare but alarming event, the waters around Gadani Jetty have turned a striking shade of pink, accompanied by a foul smell and reports of dead fish floating along the shoreline.
The unusual phenomenon, commonly referred to as a “pink tide,” prompted an urgent investigation ordered by National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) President Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed. A team of marine experts visited the site to determine the cause.
Their findings revealed that the colour change was triggered by blooms of salt-loving microorganisms — including bacteria and algae — thriving in still, overheated waters. The temperature at the site was recorded at 36.5°C, significantly higher than the average for coastal waters.
The analysis also showed extreme environmental stress. Salinity levels reached 48 PPT compared to the normal 35 PPT, while water turbidity measured 47 NTU, far above the typical range of 1–5 NTU. Nutrient levels were also excessive, with ammonium at 2.256 mg/L and phosphate at 5.739 mg/L. The water was slightly acidic (pH 6.94) and carried exceptionally high total dissolved solids and conductivity levels.
Experts linked these conditions to the jetty’s flawed design, which disrupts natural water flow and creates stagnant, brackish pools — an ideal breeding ground for microbial blooms.
This marks Pakistan’s third recorded pink tide, following similar incidents off Karachi in 2017 and Makran in 2021. NIMA has warned the public to avoid direct contact with the water and to steer clear of seafood from the affected area, citing possible risks of skin irritation and toxin exposure.
The institute has urged the Balochistan Environmental Protection Agency (BEPA) to take immediate safety measures and redesign the jetty to restore healthy water circulation.
Vice Admiral Saeed stressed that protecting marine life and coastal communities must be a national priority. “The Gadani pink tide is a stark reminder of what happens when infrastructure neglect and environmental mismanagement collide,” he warned, adding that without urgent action, the jetty could face long-term ecological collapse.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.