KARACHI: Two oil tankers loaded with one million barrels of crude oil docked in Karachi after travelling from Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan Navy escorted the oil tankers amid ongoing war tension in the region.
Authorities from the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation said the vessels reached port safely within a naval security perimeter established to protect the shipment.
The escort operation followed recent attacks on shipping near Fujairah, prompting authorities to strengthen security measures for vessels transporting fuel to Pakistan.
Officials added that the Pakistan Navy monitored the ships throughout their journey until they reached Pakistani waters, ensuring the safe delivery of the cargo.
Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar thanked the navy for providing security during the operation. He said the naval escort helped safeguard vital energy supplies at a time of heightened tensions in regional sea routes.
Meanwhile, the ministry also requested diplomatic assistance from Iran to help secure the release of two ships that remain stranded in the Persian Gulf.
More tankers expected as Pakistan secures fuel supplies
Earlier, the gas oil carrier MT Torum Damini docked at the Fotco Terminal located at Port Qasim. In addition, another tanker, MT Nave Atropos, delivered 50,000 metric tons of petrol after arriving on March 9.
However, one vessel belonging to the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation remains stranded in the region. The PNSC ship Palki is currently berthed at Ras Tanura Port in Saudi Arabia after operations were disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Port officials said disruptions in the strategic waterway have complicated shipping movements in recent days.
A spokesperson for Port Qasim confirmed that at least one tanker from Fujairah has already reached the port, while more vessels will arrive soon.
