Karachi: Pakistan plans to expand its maritime infrastructure through the development of three to four new deep-sea ports to support long-term trade and logistics growth, Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said.
According to official statements, the proposed ports are intended to ease congestion at existing facilities and accommodate rising demand as Pakistan seeks to strengthen its role in regional and international trade routes.
The plan was discussed during a meeting chaired by the minister, where officials from the maritime ministry presented a strategic framework for the proposed projects. The framework focuses on balancing economic expansion with environmental considerations, including the protection of coastal ecosystems.
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Chaudhry said the government is also working on a commercial framework to reduce pressure on current ports, noting the need to introduce alternative arrangements before existing facilities reach capacity limits.
As part of the initiative, the proposed ports will incorporate measures to protect mangroves and coastal areas. The projects are also expected to include green energy solutions and modern digital systems aimed at improving operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Officials said the new ports are expected to support both domestic trade requirements and regional logistics, aligning with the government’s broader objective of modernising maritime infrastructure and enhancing Pakistan’s position as a transit and shipping hub.