ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has inaugurated its first standardized bunkeringoperations at Karachi Port, a pivotal development in the nation’s maritimesector. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid AnwarChaudhry, announced the initiative, emphasizing its alignment withinternational safety and operational protocols. This step, directed by theprime minister, addresses longstanding deficiencies in port infrastructure,enabling Karachi to rival established regional hubs. The launch promises tostreamline ship refueling, fostering efficiency in global trade routes.
Bunkering entails the secure transfer of marine fuels, including low-sulfuroils and liquefied natural gas, from onshore facilities or specializedvessels to ships’ tanks. Prior to this, commercial vessels relied ondistant ports like Fujairah or Singapore for refueling, incurringsubstantial delays and costs. The absence of domestic services alsocompounded challenges amid India’s restrictions on vessels calling atPakistani ports. Now, regulated procedures ensure compliance with globalenvironmental norms, mitigating risks and enhancing operational reliabilityat the nation’s busiest harbor.
The operations commence in partnership with Vitol, a leading multinationalenergy trader deploying its barge for fuel delivery, complemented byCnergyico’s production of very low sulfur fuel oil. These collaborationsadhere to stringent international standards on fuel quality, documentation,and transparency. Minister Chaudhry highlighted that such measures buildtrust among shipowners and trading firms, positioning Karachi as adependable stopover. Initial assessments by the Karachi Port Trustfacilitated this rollout, incorporating stakeholder consultations andprocedural reviews.
Economically, the facility is poised to elevate vessel traffic, generatingincreased revenue through port fees, maintenance services, and logistics.Officials project substantial foreign exchange inflows, alongside jobcreation in ancillary sectors like repairs and supplies. Chaudhry notedthat this modernization underscores Pakistan’s dedication to sustainablemaritime practices, potentially boosting the national exchequer as localrefineries scale compliant fuel output. The initiative signals broaderambitions to fortify trade corridors.
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Looking ahead, expansion plans envision integrating alternative fuels andadvanced technologies, solidifying Karachi’s role in South Asian shippingnetworks. This milestone not only rectifies infrastructural gaps but alsoenhances Pakistan’s geopolitical leverage in maritime commerce, invitingsustained international investment.Source: www.dawn.com/news/1955932″>https://www.dawn.com/news/1955932Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/2578123/global-standard-bunkering-service-launched-at-karachi-port
