Port Qasim, one of Pakistan’s busiest maritime hubs, witnessed a flurry of activity on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, according to the latest report issued by the Port Qasim Authority (PQA).
The day’s operations highlighted the continuous growth in shipping traffic and the vital role the port plays in bolstering the nation’s economy.
The port’s activity kicked off with the berthing of the container ship ‘MSC Archimidis’ at the Container Terminal on Monday. This vessel, known for its substantial cargo capacity, added to the dynamic operations at Port Qasim. In addition, the last 24 hours saw the arrival of three more ships at the outer anchorage—Maersk Yorkton, MH Sandef Jord, and Ionic Artemis. These vessels, loaded with containers, rice, and mogas, underline the diverse range of commodities handled at the port.
A total of eight ships were anchored at the berths over the course of the day. Of these, three—Majestic Noor, African Loon, and Gaslog Geneva—departed in the morning, signifying a continuous flow of maritime traffic. Meanwhile, three others, including MSC Archimidis, are expected to sail later in the afternoon, further showcasing the port’s efficient turnaround capabilities.
The 24-hour period saw an impressive cargo throughput with a volume of 171,231 tonnes. This consisted of 127,174 tonnes of imported goods and 44,057 tonnes designated for export, transported within 2,810 containers. This breaks down into 1,240 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) for imports and 1,570 TEUs for exports, illustrating a robust trade balance facilitated by Port Qasim.
The report also details that three vessels—MH Sandef Jord, Ionic Artemis, and Maersk Yorkton—along with another ship, Wide Alpha, were at the outer anchorage. These ships are scheduled to berth at MW-1, FOTCO, and QICT today for loading and offloading operations, underscoring the logistical coordination that takes place daily at Port Qasim.
Moreover, the port anticipates the arrival of two more container ships, Maersk Cape Town and MSC Roma, on the following day, Wednesday. These scheduled arrivals are a testament to the continuous influx of international maritime commerce at Port Qasim and its substantial capacity to handle a diverse array of shipping needs.
Port Qasim’s significant role in Pakistan’s economic landscape is highlighted by its efficient management of both the arrival and processing of international freight. The facility not only supports the local economy by facilitating imports and exports but also plays a crucial role in the global supply chain, accommodating ships from around the world.
The PQA continues to ensure that operations at Port Qasim run smoothly and efficiently, with a focus on enhancing the port’s capacity and infrastructure. This is aimed at accommodating even larger volumes of maritime traffic in the future, securing Port Qasim’s position as a critical node in international trade routes. The bustling activity reported on May 7 is just a snapshot of the daily orchestration that makes Port Qasim a cornerstone of Pakistan’s maritime sector.
