Tag: Port Qasim

  • Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    In a groundbreaking announcement, a Japanese firm, Yamaha, has presented a proposal to launch a ferry service connecting Karachi’s Do Darya with Port Qasim, as well as develop various water sports facilities across the province of Sindh.

    The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah and Yoshiyuki ITO, the Senior General Manager for Central Asia and the Middle East at Yamaha Japan.

    The officials explored the potential of establishing water sports facilities at different barrages and lakes in Sindh, with a particular focus on enhancing recreational activities.

    A statement issued by the CM House outlined the discussion, revealing that the proposed ferry service between Do Darya and Port Qasim was among the key topics.

    Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed enthusiasm for the idea, emphasising the immense potential to develop water sports facilities in collaboration with Yamaha Pakistan.

    The chief minister further highlighted the possibilities for establishing these facilities at various barrages in Sindh, including Keenjhar, Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri Barrages.

    He underlined the importance of involving the private sector in such endeavors, which would contribute to the growth of water-based recreational activities in the region.

    During the meeting, the Yamaha representative informed Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah that the proposed ferry service would not only facilitate transportation but also provide recreational opportunities.

    Additionally, he emphasised the quality and performance of Yamaha’s WaveRunners, indicating their suitability for water sports enthusiasts.

    The introduction of a ferry service and the development of water sports facilities in Sindh would not only boost tourism but also enhance the overall experience for locals and visitors alike.

    As the proposal moves forward, collaboration between Yamaha and the provincial government holds the promise of an exciting future for water-based recreational activities in Sindh.

  • Russian crude oil shipment faces delay, expected to reach Pakistan on June 11

    Russian crude oil shipment faces delay, expected to reach Pakistan on June 11

    In a recent development, a Russian cargo vessel carrying 100,000 tonnes of crude oil has experienced delays and is now expected to reach the Omani port of Duqm on June 7. This delay has caused a setback in Pakistan’s plans as the oil was initially scheduled to arrive in Oman on May 27-28.

    According to an official, the crude oil will be transported to Pakistan via smaller ships from the Omani port, which will take approximately two weeks to reach Port Qasim in Karachi. The Russian vessel, loaded with Ural crude on April 21 at a Russian port, encountered a delay of 10 days due to technical issues. Subsequently, it arrived at Egypt’s Suez Canal on May 17, where it faced a lengthy 12-day wait in a queue to cross the canal.

    Following its journey across the Red Sea, the vessel is anticipated to reach Duqm on Tuesday. Upon arrival, the crude oil will be unloaded onto a smaller vessel with a capacity of 50,000 tons. This smaller vessel is expected to reach Port Qasim on June 11. The remaining 50,000 tons of Russian crude will be transported separately and is scheduled to arrive at Port Qasim on June 20.

    According to The News, authorities have assured the safe and smooth arrival of the Russian crude, despite the logistical challenges that caused the delay. The official stated that the transportation cost has already been settled with the Russians, so the delay will not result in additional expenses. However, there is a concern that if the price of crude oil decreases during this period, it could have detrimental effects on the country.

    Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) has been entrusted with the responsibility of refining the test cargo of Russian crude oil. PRL will blend this oil with crude imported from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Aramco. The test cargo will provide valuable data to the government regarding the quality, yields, and commercial viability of the Russian oil. Additionally, it will assist the government in assessing transportation costs, refining expenses, and refining margins for the country’s refineries.

    The government is eagerly awaiting PRL’s test report, which will aid in making informed decisions about future oil imports and refining processes.

  • Major boost for Pakistan’s port infrastructure: Gulf countries to invest $500 million

    Major boost for Pakistan’s port infrastructure: Gulf countries to invest $500 million

    Maritime Affairs Minister Faisal Sabzwari revealed that a comprehensive agreement to secure a noteworthy investment of $500 million from Gulf countries is currently in the final stages of preparation. To facilitate this endeavor, an intergovernmental agreement policy will be presented to the law ministry on Monday.

    Its potential approval will lay the groundwork for direct foreign investment, in accordance with the conditions outlined by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    During an address to members of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Minister Sabzwari informed them that Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are collaboratively operating under a government-to-government (G2G) agreement. This partnership is focused on three key projects, including the establishment of bulk terminals.

    As outlined in a press release by KATI, Mr Sabzwari revealed plans to develop industrial parks spanning 1,250 acres within Port Qasim. These parks will provide a range of facilities designed to attract foreign investors.

    Mr Sabzwari acknowledged that there have been no tariff increases at the port, although the implementation of digitalization is still pending. Additionally, limitations on leases have been imposed. He added that terminal charges have recently been adjusted from 60 cents to 80 cents, resulting in a modest 1.5 per cent increase in production costs for industrialists.

    Furthermore, the minister highlighted the successful consultations conducted with various stakeholders, including container operators, to mitigate demurrage charges and penalties at the port. As a result, Karachi Port has eradicated all penalties associated with these charges.

    According to Dawn, the minister also announced the acquisition of a maritime vessel for transporting edible oil, thus expanding the fleet at Karachi port. In addition to this development, approval has been granted for the construction of a beach wall at Karachi Fish Harbour, aimed at promoting tourism and recreational activities. Furthermore, plans have been set in motion to establish a laboratory dedicated to marine fisheries.

    Previously, KATI President Faraz-ur-Rehman stressed the importance of regulating shipping companies and proposed the implementation of a system for demurrage charges and penalties based on the value of containers. He suggested that this system should be made accessible online, similar to the shipping booking system WeBoC.

    Zubair Chayya, Deputy Patron-in-Chief of KATI, expressed that Pakistan, with its extensive 1,400-kilometre-long coastline and abundant marine resources, including highly sought-after fish species, should prioritize utilizing the coastal region for tourism, thereby reaping substantial economic benefits.