The China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) has proposed $522.34 million for the first phase of Keti Bunder Port. The Chinese company presented the port proposal during a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday.
CHEC shared a Conceptual Master Plan for the proposed deep-water port near Karachi. The proposal laid out plans for logistics facilities, multiple terminals, and supporting infrastructure for the new maritime gateway.
Phase One Includes Major Port Facilities
The proposed first phase will feature a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay. Moreover, the development aims to strengthen Pakistan’s maritime network and improve trade connectivity.
President Zardari welcomed the proposal and highlighted Keti Bunder’s potential as an additional maritime gateway. He said the project could strengthen Pakistan’s port and logistics network while supporting greater regional connectivity.
The president stressed the need for an integrated approach to the project. Therefore, he called for reliable road links, power supplies, water infrastructure, and industrial facilities alongside the port.
President Stresses Environmental Protection
Zardari also called for close technical coordination between CHEC and relevant Pakistani authorities. Such cooperation, he said, would help further develop the proposed master plan and address implementation requirements.
Meanwhile, the president stressed environmental sustainability during the port’s development. He specifically highlighted the need to protect the fragile Indus Delta ecosystem and safeguard local fishing communities.
Zardari appreciated China’s continued interest in Pakistan’s infrastructure and maritime development. He also encouraged further technical discussions to refine the master plan.
Furthermore, the president called for a financing framework and an appropriate implementation for the project. The proposed development is expected to eventually expand Pakistan’s maritime capacity and strengthen trade links throughout the southern region.
