President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday called for an integrated approach to the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port, stressing that the project should be supported by reliable road connectivity, power and water supply, industrial infrastructure and other essential facilities.
The president was speaking during a presentation on the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC). Welcoming the Chinese delegation, he appreciated China’s continued interest in supporting Pakistan’s infrastructure and maritime development.
He said Keti Bunder had significant potential as an additional maritime gateway that could strengthen Pakistan’s port and logistics network and support greater connectivity and trade. He emphasised the need for close technical coordination between the Chinese side and relevant Pakistani authorities.
He also stressed that environmental sustainability should remain a key consideration, particularly the protection of the fragile ecosystem of the Indus Delta and the interests and livelihoods of local fishing communities. He encouraged continued technical engagement to further refine the master plan and identify an appropriate implementation and financing framework.
The Chinese delegation presented the Conceptual Master Plan for Keti Bunder Port, envisaging a new deep-water maritime gateway with multiple terminals, logistics and supporting infrastructure. The proposed Phase-I development includes a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay, with a preliminary engineering cost estimate of approximately US$522.34 million.
The Chinese delegation comprised Wu Ping, Chief Representative of CHEC in Pakistan, Wang Zongde, Head of Marketing Department and Mr Xu Tielin, Engineer, along with Ali Raza, GM of Strategy and Marketing.
Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, Senators Saleem Mandviwala and Sherry Rehman, Sindh Minister for Energy, P&D Mr Nasir Hussain Shah, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment & Public Private Partnership Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar and Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Hyder Shah also attended the meeting.
