Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry inaugurated a ferry terminal at Karachi Port Trust (KPT), announcing the soft launch of Pakistan’s first-ever ferry service linking Karachi with Iran’s Chabahar Port.
At the ceremony, the minister stated that with the launch of this ferry service, his vision for a sustainable, safe, and modern marine passenger transport system in Pakistan has been fulfilled.
Time and schedule of the Karachi Chabahar ferry
According to details by the officials, the service will start in the third week of the ongoing month, January.
The first ferry will leave from Karachi. It is expected to carry up to 240 passengers to Chabahar in Iran.
This journey between the two cities via the newly launched ferry is expected to take between 12 and 14 hours only.
The ferry will make three round trips each week. The cost for a round trip is set at only Rs50,000 for each passenger.
“This ferry service is not just a transport initiative but a gateway to economic opportunities, tourism promotion, and regional connectivity,” said Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
He said that this was the first ferry service license issued in Pakistan’s history.
Business boost
He also encouraged the business community to come up with new and creative ideas to engage in business with Pakistan’s ports.
“We welcome new concepts and investments,” he said. Further adding, “and the ministry will extend full cooperation and facilitation to ensure their success.”
He said in coordination with its attached departments, particularly port authorities, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs was actively pursuing policy reforms.
Tourism boost
In addition to infrastructure upgrades and public-private partnerships to boost the country’s blue economy.
Talking about rising investor interest, the minister revealed that several businessmen had shown a very strong interest in getting licences to operate ferry services.
He expressed optimism that greater private sector involvement would help expand maritime tourism.
This will also help greatly to generate new opportunities in employment, hospitality, transport, and other related sectors.
More plans soon
The minister further announced that the Port Qasim Authority will reveal more plans soon. These plans are expected to provide modern infrastructure to the investors.
