Pakistan’s maritime affairs minister on Monday reaffirmed the country’s resolve to ensure pollution-free ports, stressing their importance in ensuring economic growth and promoting a safer marine ecosystem.

Pollution near Pakistani ports is widespread, particularly in Karachi, hindering environmental progress and posing serious risks to marine life. Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry spoke about the Karachi Port Trust’s (KPT) latest weekly clean-up drive in a statement. He said the drive recovered 16,430 kilograms of solid waste from high-risk harbor areas.

The waste, Chaudhry said, included plastic debris, floating garbage, organic refuse, and discarded fishing materials that act as threats to marine ecosystems, port operations, and coastal biodiversity.

“Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Monday reaffirmed the government’s resolve to maintain a clean and sustainable maritime environment, emphasizing that pollution-free ports are vital for safe navigation and economic growth,” the maritime affairs ministry said in a statement.

Chaudhry said the waste collected during the clean-up drive was safely transported to the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board’s garbage transfer station for disposal in line with environmental regulations.

He noted that sustained cleanliness enhances vessel turnaround times, reduces hazards and supports efficient trade.

“We remain committed to safeguarding marine life, navigational safety and a cleaner harbor through stakeholder cooperation and public awareness,” the minister added.

Pakistan has sought to modernize its port operations, improve the livelihoods of fisherfolk and align the country’s marine management practices with national and international environmental commitments in recent years.

Pakistan’s maritime sector posted a record Rs100 billion ($360 million) profit in 2025 following a year of sweeping reforms aimed at improving port efficiency, cost-cutting, and safeguarding marine ecosystems to boost the blue economy.
Source: Arab News