Islamabad — The National Assembly Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs, chaired by Abdul Qadir Patel, on Tuesday unanimously approved the Environmentally Sound Management of Inventory of Hazardous Material on Ships Bill, 2025, while deferring other port-related amendment bills for further legal review.
During the session, the Committee reviewed key legislative proposals, including the Port Qasim Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Gwadar Port Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and Karachi Port Trust (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Following detailed deliberations, only the hazardous material management bill received unanimous approval, while the remaining bills were postponed until the next meeting for comprehensive vetting.
The Committee also offered prayers for martyrs of terrorism incidents across the country and expressed condolences to their families. At the outset, members noted the absence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs (MOMA) and stressed prior intimation for future meetings.
The Committee confirmed minutes of the previous meeting and reviewed implementation reports of earlier recommendations. Members appreciated the continuous monitoring of outsourced firefighter services by Karachi Port Trust and its prompt response to the fire at KICT on January 16, 2026. An appreciation letter was decided for the Chairman KPT, Rear Admiral Kashif, and the firefighting team.
Regarding direct procurement of vessels by KPT from Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works, the Committee highlighted violations of PEPRA Rules, with the Minister assuring strict compliance in all future procurements.
The legal departments of MOMA and the Law Ministry were tasked with harmonizing all port-related bills and incorporating suggested amendments. The meeting was attended by Committee members, the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, and senior officials from MOMA, PQT, KPT, PNSC, and GPA.