With Pakistan’s three major ports projected to reach full capacity between 2035 and 2045 amid a surging national economy, the government is advancing plans to develop new deep-sea ports, placing robust environmental protection at the centre of its maritime expansion strategy.
According to an official report on Wednesday, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, underscored the critical need to balance economic growth with environmental safeguards while chairing a high-level committee meeting on the new port development initiative.
The minister highlighted that new coastal facilities are essential to accommodate rising industrial activity, regional transit trade, and increasing shipping volumes, as Pakistan”s GDP is forecast to reach $1 trillion between 2030 and 2035.
During the meeting, attended by representatives from 10 relevant organisations, Mr Chaudhry also called for the creation of smaller, business-model ports to alleviate pressure on existing infrastructure. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in preparing for the next century of maritime economic transformation.
The committee briefed the minister on its assessment framework for three potential sites, designated Port 1, Port 2, and Port 3. The evaluation focuses on technical feasibility, including natural depth, marine access, and coastal conditions, to determine each location”s long-term operational viability.
Environmental sensitivity is a key consideration, with the framework examining the presence of mangroves, protected areas, and potential impacts on local communities and their livelihoods to ensure responsible development.
The assessment also covers land availability for future expansion, hinterland connectivity through road and rail networks, and the overall strategic value of each proposed port concerning trade facilitation and regional development.
This initiative is part of the government’s long-term Hundred Years Vision 2047-2147, which aims to establish three to four new deep-sea ports along Pakistan’s extensive 1,000-kilometre coastline. These future hubs are envisioned to feature modern cargo handling equipment, green energy integration, and digital management systems.
The committee has commenced work on a comprehensive feasibility report, which will include technical findings, hydrographic maps, and investment recommendations for submission to the Maritime Ministry.