President Asif Ali Zardari has called for an integrated master plan to develop the proposed Keti Bunder Port. He stressed the need for supporting infrastructure alongside the port.
The President made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC). He urged Chinese experts and Pakistani authorities to maintain close technical cooperation.
Supporting Infrastructure a Key Priority
Zardari said the proposed port needs reliable road connections, stable electricity and water supplies. He also called for dedicated industrial zones to support economic activity around the facility.
Moreover, the President described Keti Bunder as a potential secondary maritime gateway for Pakistan. The port could strengthen national trade and improve logistics connectivity.
Environmental Protection and Local Communities
The President also emphasized environmental safeguards during the port’s development. He called for measures to protect the vulnerable Indus Delta ecosystem.
In addition, he stressed the importance of protecting the livelihoods of local fishing communities. Sustainable development, he said, should remain central to the project.
CHEC Presents Conceptual Master Plan
During the meeting, the CHEC delegation presented its Conceptual Master Plan for Keti Bunder Port. The plan proposes a deep-water facility with several specialized terminals.
The initial phase includes a 500-meter multi-purpose quay. CHEC estimates the engineering cost of this phase at $522.34 million.
Potential Boost to Trade and Logistics
The proposed port could expand Pakistan’s maritime capacity and create new opportunities for trade and industry. Furthermore, integrated road, power, water and industrial infrastructure could improve the project’s long-term economic impact.
The development also highlights growing Pakistan-China cooperation in major maritime infrastructure projects.
Read More Articles:
China-Pakistan Launch Youth Volunteer Team
