KARACHI, April 13, 2026 — Pakistan’s maritime authorities have formed a committee to assess water-related challenges at Port Qasim and prepare a long-term sustainability plan, the government said on Monday.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the decision during a visit to Port Qasim Authority, where he reviewed ongoing development projects, investment proposals, and infrastructure upgrades aimed at expanding the port’s capacity.
The committee, comprising Port Qasim Authority board members and senior officials, has been tasked with submitting recommendations by the end of April. It will also draft a comprehensive 25-year sustainability roadmap, including cost estimates and implementation priorities.
Officials briefed the minister on a range of initiatives, including logistics improvements, industrial expansion plans, and the proposed textile city project. Chaudhry expressed satisfaction with the progress but emphasized the need for timely completion of projects to meet rising cargo volumes and modern shipping demands.
He highlighted accelerated work on land reforms and new investment opportunities in and around the port, including plans for a multipurpose terminal designed to increase cargo-handling capacity and diversify operations. The Eastern Industrial Zone was also discussed as a key project to attract domestic and foreign investment.
The minister directed authorities to fast-track critical infrastructure, including a wastewater treatment plant and a dual carriageway to improve operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
He also reviewed the “Sea to Steel” initiative, aimed at linking maritime trade with domestic industrial growth to reduce import dependency, alongside renewable energy proposals involving wind and solar power to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources.
Chaudhry further outlined the Coastal Economic Zone concept, positioning it as a hub for industrial and commercial development.
He said the combined efforts would strengthen Port Qasim’s competitiveness, boost employment, and enhance Pakistan’s blue economy through modernization and investment facilitation.