KARACHI: A new phase of multipurpose cargo handling has begun at Karachi Port, with the completion of dredging and upgrades expected to significantly increase the port’s cargo-handling capacity and improve maritime trade operations.
The dredging work at Karachi Port has been completed, increasing the berth depth to 15 metres. The Karachi Gateway Terminal (KGTML) is now equipped to handle larger vessels, allowing the port to accommodate bulk cargo ships carrying up to 120,000 metric tonnes.
The next phase of the project will include the installation of modern ship unloaders, loaders and 14 food-grade silos. The silo complex is expected to provide an annual cargo-handling capacity of up to 9 million tonnes.
The export infrastructure will also have the capacity to handle around 8.5 million tonnes of cargo annually, strengthening Pakistan’s bulk cargo and food supply chains.
The project is expected to significantly reduce vessel turnaround times at the port. According to the provided details, ships that previously required around 13 days could now be cleared in as little as three days.
The development is also expected to benefit traders by reducing freight costs by an estimated 25% to 35%.
The arrival of post-Panamax vessels at Karachi Port is expected to further strengthen the port’s role in Pakistan’s maritime trade, while the expanded facilities and increased handling capacity could enhance the country’s logistics and trade infrastructure.
