Karachi, January 21, 2026 – Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Wednesday emphasized the need for satellite technology to monitor Pakistan’s sea ports, enhance maritime management, and strengthen environmental and disaster response.
The minister made the remarks during a visit to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) headquarters—the first-ever visit by a maritime affairs minister to the agency. During the visit, Chairman SUPARCO Yusuf Khan and senior officials briefed the minister on the organisation’s satellite capabilities, maritime safety applications, and port monitoring initiatives.
Officials presented satellite-based assessments for potential new port locations and outlined plans for relief and rescue operations within Pakistan’s maritime boundaries. They also highlighted artificial intelligence solutions for port management, including monitoring cargo dwell time and addressing customs inefficiencies via the Artificial Intelligence Maritime Secretariat (AIMS).
Minister Junaid Chaudhry stressed the importance of leveraging satellite technology to address environmental challenges, conserve ocean biodiversity, and enhance sustainable use of marine resources. He highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to the Ocean Biodiversity Treaty and global marine conservation efforts.
SUPARCO showcased its high-resolution satellite imagery and digital modelling capabilities for tracking maritime traffic, detecting oil spills, monitoring mangroves, and performing coastal hazard assessments including cyclone and storm surge predictions. The minister praised the agency’s role in disaster management and its participation in the Cospas-Sarsat satellite-based search and rescue programme.
The minister underscored that data-driven, continuous monitoring of coastal ecosystems, water quality, and port operations is vital for informed maritime policymaking, climate resilience, and the sustainable management of Pakistan’s growing maritime infrastructure.