KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari has directed authorities to fast-track the comprehensive development of Keti Bandar Port as a vital new maritime gateway for Pakistan. During a briefing by a delegation from the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the President emphasized that the project must incorporate robust supporting infrastructure, including road networks, power and water supplies, and industrial frameworks. He noted that Keti Bandar will significantly expand Pakistan’s logistics network, boost trade connectivity, and serve as an alternative commercial shipping route while urging strong technical coordination between Chinese and Pakistani institutions.
The conceptual master plan presented by CHEC features a deep-sea port equipped with multiple terminals and logistics zones. The first phase of the project proposes a 500-meter multi-purpose terminal with an estimated initial engineering cost of 522.34 million USD. Furthermore, President Zardari strictly mandated the integration of ecological protection measures, specifically aiming to preserve the fragile Indus Delta ecosystem and safeguard the livelihoods and interests of local fishing communities.
The high-level briefing concluded with a focus on continuing technical consultations to refine the master plan and establish a viable financial framework for implementation. The meeting was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, senior federal and provincial ministers, senators, and key executive representatives from the China Harbour Engineering Company.
