LAHORE: The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has reported significant progress in land recovery over the past few months, with approximately 230 acres retrieved and allocated through transparent open tenders for business ventures. Additionally, the land policy and pricing structure have been revised to be more business-friendly, aiming to promote investment. KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd) Shahid Ahmed visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) to discuss port modernisation, operational improvements, and development projects.
Comprehensive Reforms Underway
During his address, Chairman Ahmed stated that comprehensive reforms are being implemented to transform Karachi Port into a modern transshipment hub. These reforms include digitising port operations and prioritising business facilitation. He informed businessmen that container handling capacity has increased significantly, with a target of 2.7 million containers set for the current year. He described the integration of the Vessel Traffic Management System, ERP system, and Pakistan Single Window as a revolutionary step in port facilitation. In the coming years, the clearance and approval process will be fully digital and fast-tracked to reduce business costs and time.
Infrastructure and Efficiency Improvements
Ahmed revealed that 70% of long-delayed capital dredging work has been completed, which will increase channel depth and enable larger vessels to dock, thereby significantly reducing logistics costs. Efforts are also underway to reduce dwell time in line with global benchmarks, with a target to bring it down from the current seven to eight days to five days over the next two years.
Major Initiatives
The KPT chief highlighted major initiatives including the bunkering business, free terminal operations, ferry services, and the establishment of a Maritime Business District. He said that the 140-acre Maritime Business District will bring banks, shipping lines, insurance companies, and maritime institutions under one roof, making it a landmark project for Pakistan's logistics sector.
Business Community's Perspective
Speaking on the occasion, LCCI Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh acknowledged that despite challenging conditions, the port has ensured continuity of operations and supported national trade. He praised the reduction in transshipment charges, provision of additional storage space, and terminal facilitation measures. However, he highlighted issues faced by the business community, particularly demurrage charges, delays in bank document clearance, and customs processing, and stressed the need for their immediate resolution. He called for necessary practical steps to improve ease of doing business to boost investments and exports.
