Abu Dhabi Ports announces $250 million investment in Karachi Port

KARACHI: In a significant boost to Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure, Khurram Aziz Khan, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Ports Pakistan, announced on Friday that the company will invest $250 million in Karachi Port over the next 10 years.

Khan shared this information during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Accompanied by a delegation, Khan revealed plans for a $130 million investment to construct a fully equipped multipurpose terminal at Karachi Port, which is expected to be completed within two years. The delegation provided detailed insights into the company’s investment strategy, highlighting enhancements to the container terminal facility.

These improvements include the implementation of X-ray control, automated gates, a 200-meter berth expansion, crane rail track installation, and overall infrastructure development.

The upgraded infrastructure will enable cargo ships with capacities of up to 120,000 tons to dock at the port, significantly boosting economic activity in the region.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised the importance of utilising modern technology and machinery to enhance cargo and container handling efficiency at the port. He stressed the need to minimise clearance times to improve overall operational effectiveness.

The prime minister underscored the agreement’s goals with Abu Dhabi Ports: ensuring transparency, increasing capacity, and improving port operations.

Prime Minister Sharif assured the delegation of the government’s full support in executing the agreement, aiming to maximise its benefits.

Additionally, he directed railway authorities to provide freight bogies and other essential rolling stock to operationalise the project, thereby improving cargo transportation from the terminal.

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