Two vessels, MV NIWA (UAE Flag) and MV PAPU (Liberian Flag), came into contact near the approaches to Karachi Port on 28 May 2026 at around 2000 hrs. The incident occurred outside the Fairway buoy. No casualties or injuries were reported.

KPT immediately launched a major rescue operation, deploying its four major tugs—MT Mithadar, MT Kharadar, MT Lyari, and MT Keamari—to safely escort the damaged vessel, MV NIWA, into Karachi Harbour for repairs, thereby averting potential risks to navigation and the marine environment.

Deputy Conservator Captain Abrar Arif, Harbour Master Captain Babar Salim, and Dock Master Captain Hamid Khan Jadoon supervised the rescue operation. Despite the Eid holidays, the prompt response, sense of responsibility, and professionalism of the KPT marine teams ensured the successful completion of the operation at midnight on 28/29 May.

The container ship MV PAPU has been held at the outer anchorage.

A detailed investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said that two foreign vessels collided near Karachi Port late Thursday night, but no casualties or injuries were reported.

The minister stated that the incident resulted from alleged negligence by both ship masters. The affected cable-laying vessel was safely towed to port with the assistance of Karachi Port Trust (KPT) tugs.

Investigations are underway to determine the exact causes of the accident. Chaudhry emphasized that the government and relevant authorities remain fully mobilized to ensure maritime safety.