KARACHI:
A boat is like a pet. It’s expensive, it’s a lot of work, and it’s always shedding. This joke aside, boat building really consumes a lot of time and money – and requires expert craftsmanship.
Boat building is an ancient craft, with first reference found in the biblical story of Prophet Noah’s ark.
In Karachi, the ancient art continues to flourish at Kala Pani Jetty near Fish Harbour against the backdrop of the endless blue seas.
Here, master craftsmen, using traditional tools and techniques, are working tirelessly to build a 100-tonne fishing trawler. This gigantic vessel, built for a seafood trader in Balochistan, stands as a testament to the resilience of traditional craftsmanship in the face of modern technological advancements.
The fishing trawler, which has been under construction for the past 18 months, measures 57 feet in length, 50 feet in width, and 24 feet in height. It is powered by a 580-horsepower engine and features state-of-the-art cold storage tanks capable of preserving its catch for up to a month.
Designed to accommodate 50 fishermen, this trawler is an engineering marvel, blending traditional wooden architecture with modern functionality.
The boat is being built under the supervision of master craftsman Farid Abdul Rahman, a fourth-generation boat builder.
Farid learnt this centuries-old art from his forefathers and is now passing it on to his son, Siraj. The process begins with the skilful assembly of the keel, curved wooden planks, beams, and the foundational “sakhan” on the boat’s floor.
The construction involves various high-quality woods such as Acacia Nilotica (kikar), Burma Teak, Chir Pine (pratal), Eucalyptus, Indian Rosewood (sheesham), Cedar, and imported African timber.
“We have been keeping this craft alive despite the lack of government support,” said Farid. “This trawler will be used for catching large fish, including the prized saua, whose meat sells for millions.”
The vessel, locally known as a “Rich,” features three storeys with an elegant design reminiscent of Mughal architecture. Its lower and upper decks are adorned with intricate Kashmiri-style carvings, strong wooden pillars, and latticed panels. The trawler is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making it a symbol of traditional craftsmanship.
Kala Pani Jetty is a hub of boat building, with vessels of various sizes being built for local use and international buyers, including those from Dubai and Iran. The sounds of heavy sawing machines and hammering resonate across the area, while tall, house-like boats stand as a testament to the dedication of these artisans.
Despite the advent of modern fiberglass vessels, wooden boats remain popular for their durability in harsh saltwater conditions, boasting a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
Farid expressed concerns over the challenges faced by boat builders at Kala Pani. “We lack basic amenities like electricity, water, and sanitation,” he said. He also spoke about the technical difficulties of launching these massive boats into the water. The process requires large cranes and precision to avoid damage.
The cost of these boats ranges from Rs4 million to tens of millions, depending on their size and features. Smaller boats like the “Tukdi,” which accommodates two fishermen, and the larger “Qatra,” capable of carrying 65 fishermen, are also built at the jetty. Despite the hardships, the demand for these boats remains high. Hundreds are built annually to meet the needs of Pakistan’s fishing industry, as well as for export.
Farid proudly recalled building a 70-foot boat for Iran, a project that took four years to complete.
As the massive trawler nears completion, it serves as a reminder of the dedication and expertise of Karachi’s boat builders.
With their craftsmanship, they continue to attract praise from around the world, including from Arab buyers who frequently visit Kala Pani to admire the artistry.
