By Syed Zahid Majeed
ISLAMABAD, Feb 26 (APP): Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has unveiled sweeping reforms to modernize Pakistan’s maritime sector, unveiling a century-long plan for port expansion and shipping modernization, activation of Gwadar Port, launch of ferry services, and institutional upgrades including a degree-awarding maritime university.
In an exclusive interview with APP, the minister said Pakistan Maritime Academy is set to be upgraded into a degree-awarding university, with Rs1 billion earmarked for renovation. Officials said the Higher Education Commission is being approached for a charter, expressing hope the institution will begin functioning soon.
Chaudhry said initiatives such as a complaint cell, artificial intelligence integration, training programs, and the Sea-to-Steel project would promote transparency, efficiency, industry growth, and employment.
The Minister highlighted the launch of a Complaint Cell as a key reform, enabling citizens to register grievances and suggestions on maritime operations, port management, and shipping policies. “Complaints are being resolved within 10 days,” he said, adding that the initiative aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement.
On youth participation, Chaudhry stressed the importance of encouraging entrepreneurs and SMEs to present ideas for port development. “Investing in youth is vital for socio-economic growth,” he remarked.
Discussing Gwadar Port, he said it would be fully activated soon, with road and rail links to Central Asian states nearing completion. “Once connectivity projects are finalized, Gwadar will become fully operational,” he added.
Chaudhry also outlined the Sea-to-Steel Initiative, linking port infrastructure with steel production and ship recycling to reduce imports, spur domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and strengthen reserves.
He said the feasibility study would be completed within days, paving the way for production, and noted he had shared proposals with Haroon Akhtar Khan on using ship-breaking material in industry.
Outlining the government’s Maritime Century (2047–2147) framework, Chaudhry said three new deep-sea ports are planned over the next hundred years, alongside modernization of the shipping fleet, shipbuilding and recycling facilities, adoption of green technologies, and investment in human resource development. Artificial intelligence, he added, will be integrated into port operations by next year to enhance efficiency.
On ferry services, Chaudhry pointed out that no licence had been issued since Pakistan’s establishment. “This government has granted the first licence, with more applications under consideration,” he said, adding that a state-of-the-art terminal has been set up at Karachi Port Trust and plans are underway to launch services to Iraq, Iran, and Abu Dhabi.
He acknowledged that the ministry had faced challenges in the past, but praised the commitment of departmental heads in helping overcome them.
He further noted that seminars and training sessions are being arranged for maritime staff, with a dedicated hall established at the fisheries facility. Children of fishermen are also being trained in modern fishing methods to improve livelihoods.