Sonmiani Bay marks the northernmost point of the Arabian Sea and is situated along the eastern endge of the Makran, on the shores of Lasbela District and Hub District in Balochistan, Pakistan, northwest of Karachi.
Physical and Ecological Features
Characterised on its shores by
Mudflat, sandy beaches, and
Mangrove forest, the bay provides critical habitats for marine and bird species and plays an important role in natural coastal protection.
It sustains the livelihoods of local fishing communities, with both artisanal and commercial fishing activities, with common catches including shrimp, crabs, pomfret, and mackerel.
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Fishing and Livelihoods
Fishing in Sonmiani Bay has been central to local livelihoods for thousands of years, long before the rise of ancient Indus Valley cities such as Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.
Conservation and Environmental Challenges
Miani Hor, connected to the bay, is designated as a Ramsar site of international importance due to its function as a breeding and migratory habitat for bird and as a nursery for fish.
Although it lacks formal status as a marine protected area, conservation concerns have been raised by Non-governmental organization and the Balochistan Forests & Wildlife Department.
Beyond its ecological and economic relevance, the costal areas at Sonmiani Bay hosts the Sonmiani Spaceport, the primary launch facility of Pakistan's national space agency SUPARCO. The Pakistan Air Force also uses the nearby range for live-fire demonstrations and training.
