Chairman Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed SI(M) S.Bt (Retd), briefed the Chairman, Prime Minister’s Inspection Commission (PMIC), Brig Muzaffar Ali Ranjha (Retd), accompanied by Member Mirza Muhammad Irfan Baig, on Karachi Port’s transformation into a fifth-generation smart port, its record FY 2025–26 throughput of 55.438 million tonnes and 2.749 million TEUs, and its improved international rankings. He highlighted enhanced transshipment incentives, expanding global shipping connectivity and Karachi Port’s growing potential as a regional bunkering hub.

The briefing encompassed strategic harbour deepening, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation, connectivity initiatives and operational reforms, alongside the recovery of 255 acres of encroached land valued at approximately Rs 180 billion. The Chairman also underscored KPT’s commitment to sustainable port development through the conservation of 4,000 acres of mangroves, renewable energy initiatives, fleet electrification and environmentally responsible waste management.

Highlighting the port’s investment potential, the Chairman outlined lucrative opportunities in the proposed 140-acre Maritime Business District, South Wharf, Oil Pier-I, Manora Shipyard and Workshop, and terminal expansion projects. Appreciating KPT’s institutional transformation and operational achievements, Brig Muzaffar Ali Ranjha (Retd) particularly commended its proactive response to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, which has strengthened Karachi Port’s emerging role as a regional transshipment hub while unlocking promising opportunities in the international bunkering market.