Directive aims to ease congestion and boost efficiency
Karachi: Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has ordered the removal of old and stranded containers at Karachi Port within 30 days to reduce congestion and improve operational efficiency. He issued the directive during a high-level meeting on Thursday, where officials reviewed the growing backlog of containers at the port.
Moreover, authorities instructed relevant departments to immediately relocate containers to safer locations. The minister emphasized that rising transshipment cargo, driven by evolving regional dynamics, has increased pressure on port infrastructure. Consequently, he called for a comprehensive strategy to streamline cargo movement and prevent further bottlenecks.
In addition, Chaudhry directed officials to develop a clear commercial mechanism for shifting cargo to off-dock terminals. He also requested a detailed relocation plan from the Karachi Port Trust and terminal operators to ensure swift implementation.
Measures include record management and cost relief initiatives
Furthermore, the minister ordered authorities to maintain complete records of off-dock facilities and transshipment cargo to strengthen oversight. He also instructed the removal of excess materials, including wooden pallets and unused equipment, to free up valuable space and improve logistics flow.
Meanwhile, officials highlighted earlier relief measures introduced on March 9 to accelerate cargo clearance. The government waived demurrage charges on auctioned containers, provided they were cleared within seven days, in coordination with private terminal operators.
As a result, the initiative helped expedite the removal of long-pending cargo and created additional space for incoming shipments. Chaudhry stated that these combined efforts aim to enhance port performance, facilitate trade, and support Pakistan’s broader logistics framework.
