National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs visited Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and received a comprehensive briefing on its administrative matters. The session highlighted local fishermen’s rights, the future of Karachi Port, and other key issues. Maritime Affairs committee chairman Abdul Qadir Patel, stated, “Our shared goal is the development of Pakistan,” emphasizing the need to improve the institution’s performance.
During the meeting, the committee expressed concern over the absence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs. A briefing was also provided on the recent visit of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), outlining the positive impact this visit could have on Pakistan’s maritime industry.
The committee instructed the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to formulate a separate policy to safeguard the rights of local fishermen, ensuring their well-being. Additionally, the committee recommended that KPT provide more facilities for the local population. Furthermore, the committee urged that steps be taken to transform Karachi Port Trust into Karachi Port Authority, stressing the need to accelerate efforts to reclaim KPT’s occupied land.
