KARACHI, Jun 13 (APP): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Friday emphasized the need to balance industrial growth with ecological preservation at ports, underscoring a strategic vision that aligns economic development with environmental sustainability.
In a statement issued here, the minister urged upon the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) to intensify efforts to protect the environment across all industrial zones under its jurisdiction, stressing the importance of responsible industrial growth alongside ecological preservation.
The minister directed PQA management to ensure that all industrial units have installed sewage treatment plants. He warned that failure to comply should result in penalties under environmental laws for pollution and improper waste discharge to curb industrial pollution and safeguard marine and coastal ecosystems.
Praising PQA’s engagement of independent third-party for environmental monitoring, the minister urged the port to maintain impartial, data-driven assessments of industrial compliance. This approach will improve transparency and strengthen regulatory enforcement.
Highlighting PQA’s commitment to the global Green Port Initiative, Maritime Minister noted that the authority has successfully planted over 25,000 trees within port areas, significantly contributing to carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration.
“These efforts underscore PQA’s unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility and a sustainable, greener future for maritime sector,” the minister stated adding it aligns with broader government policies to modernize maritime infrastructure and enforce stricter environmental regulations, including waste management and afforestation projects.
The Ministry continues to collaborate with port authorities, industry stakeholders, and environmental agencies to ensure the ports contribute positively to climate resilience and marine conservation, he added.
The Federal Minister’s directives reflect a strategic vision to balance industrial development with ecological stewardship, safeguarding coastline and marine biodiversity for future generations. The Port Qasim Authority’s proactive environmental measures set a benchmark for sustainable port operations in the region.
