Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Friday announced the arrival of M.V. Grande Shanghai, carrying more than 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan’s first-ever Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipment. In a statement, the minister said the 220-metre RoRo vessel had successfully berthed at the Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML) terminal of Karachi Port Trust (KPT), describing the development as a significant milestone for Pakistan’s maritime and logistics sectors.

He said the vessel’s arrival followed his approval of RoRo shipments of electric vehicles at a committee meeting on maritime issues held last month. The minister said the successful handling of the vessel reflected the growing capability of port infrastructure to accommodate specialised cargo operations in line with international standards.

He noted that the country’s first RoRo shipment of electric vehicles also highlighted Pakistan’s gradual integration into the global clean mobility and sustainable transport supply chain.

Explaining the significance of RoRo operations, Junaid Chaudhry said that unlike conventional cargo vessels, RoRo ships are purpose-built to transport wheeled cargo, allowing vehicles to be driven directly on and off the vessel. The system, he added, significantly reduces cargo handling time, enhances operational safety and improves overall efficiency at ports.

He said the successful berthing of M.V. Grande Shanghai demonstrated Karachi Port Trust’s commitment to modernising port operations and facilitating trade through efficient, technology-driven logistics.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives to strengthen the maritime sector and enhance Pakistan’s connectivity with global shipping networks.