ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for a comprehensive and coordinated development strategy for Keti Bunder Port, with particular emphasis on improved connectivity, infrastructure and the welfare of local communities.
The president made the remarks during a briefing in Islamabad on a proposed development plan for Keti Bunder Port presented by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC).
He directed that the proposed port project be backed by dependable road links, electricity and water supplies, industrial facilities and other necessary supporting infrastructure to ensure its effective operation.
President Zardari welcomed China’s continued interest in Pakistan’s infrastructure and maritime sectors, saying Keti Bunder could emerge as an important additional gateway for the country’s maritime trade.
He said the project had the potential to expand Pakistan’s port and logistics network, enhance regional connectivity and facilitate increased trade.
The president also called for close coordination between Chinese experts and relevant Pakistani institutions during the planning and development stages of the project.
Highlighting environmental concerns, he stressed that the development plan must take into account the sensitive ecosystem of the Indus Delta as well as the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
He urged the concerned authorities and the Chinese side to maintain technical consultations to improve the proposed master plan and determine a suitable mechanism for implementing and financing the project.
During the briefing, the Chinese delegation presented a Conceptual Master Plan for Keti Bunder Port, which envisages a new deep-water maritime facility comprising several terminals, logistics services and related infrastructure.
Under the proposed first phase, a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay is planned. The preliminary engineering cost of Phase-I has been estimated at around $522.34 million.
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