KARACHI – Pakistan has achieved a significant milestone in its maritime sector with the arrival of its first Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) cargo vessel carrying more than 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs) to Karachi Port.
The vessel, M.V. Grande Shanghai, docked at Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTML), where the imported EVs were unloaded directly through the ship’s built-in ramps. This modern unloading method allows vehicles to be driven off the vessel without the use of cranes, making the process quicker and more cost-effective.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry described the arrival as a landmark achievement for Pakistan’s shipping industry. He said the successful handling of the country’s first RoRo shipment reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing port infrastructure and improving maritime operations.
RoRo shipping is widely used across the world for transporting wheeled cargo such as passenger vehicles, buses, trucks, trailers and heavy machinery. Since the cargo is driven on and off the vessel, the system reduces handling time, lowers operational costs and improves overall efficiency compared to conventional container shipping.
According to the minister, adopting advanced shipping methods will strengthen Pakistan’s trade network, enhance logistics performance and help local ports meet international standards.
“Karachi Port is steadily transforming into a modern maritime hub capable of providing world-class shipping services,” Chaudhry said.
The latest achievement comes shortly after another major success for Pakistan’s ports. Earlier this month, authorities at Port Qasim safely berthed a massive LNG carrier during severe monsoon weather, preventing a potential energy supply disruption.
The vessel transported 171,951 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it the largest LNG cargo ever received at the PGPCL terminal. With a beam measuring 47.8 metres, it also became the widest LNG carrier to dock at Port Qasim during the monsoon season, highlighting the country’s growing capability to handle complex maritime operations.
