Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has directed port authorities to prepare and execute a comprehensive 30-day plan to resolve congestion at Karachi Port terminals. The initiative aims to shift, auction, and dispose of stuck-up containers and surplus materials occupying valuable on-dock space.
Rising Transshipment Cargo Adds Pressure
The surge in transshipment cargo, driven by improved port performance and regional dynamics including disruptions in Middle East shipping routes, has intensified congestion. Officials noted that this increased volume is straining terminal capacity, potentially affecting overall port efficiency.
30-Day Plan for Shifting and Clearance
The minister chaired a sub-committee meeting and instructed authorities to transfer stuck-up containers and surplus items from on-dock areas to designated off-dock facilities such as Sky Media Terminal, Al-Hamd Terminal, and Northern Bypass within 30 days. Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has been tasked to collect detailed shifting plans from terminal operators and share them with the sub-committee and customs by the end of this week.
Customs authorities will facilitate the auction of stuck-up containers within one month, while terminal operators must dispose of surplus materials like wooden pallets and unused equipment in the same period. Rationalised reserve prices for mixed lots will help accelerate the auction process.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will allow shipping companies to remove and destroy abandoned containers as per existing regulations. A clear mechanism will also be developed to shift transshipment cargo to off-dock terminals on commercial terms, with updated records of off-dock facilities maintained.
Focus on Seamless Operations and Future Growth
Minister Chaudhry emphasized that port operations must continue without disruption to domestic trade. “Pakistan must seize emerging regional opportunities by adopting a forward-looking framework to sustain and expand our ports’ potential,” he stated.
Officials expressed confidence that these coordinated efforts will significantly reduce congestion, support trade flows, and enhance maritime logistics efficiency in the country.