While a large number of pilgrims on their way to Iraq have been stranded due to the ban on land travel to neighbouring Iran, the government of Pakistan has approved the first ferry service licence.
Applications of ferry operators had been pending approval since 2017-18 and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, while taking a fast-track route, approved the first licence on Monday for an international ferry operator. UK-based company Sea Keeper will run vessels on routes connecting Pakistan with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member countries.
The government is under serious pressure from around one million pilgrims, who attend Arbaeen (the Chehlum of Imam Hussain) in Karbala, as land travel to Iran has been halted recently without any prior notice.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry led the move by fast-tracking approval of the ferry service. He emphasised that the passenger shipping service would not only offer pilgrims going to Iraq and Iran safe and secure travel but would also provide an opportunity for boosting regional connectivity and economic activity via sea routes.
"Initial operations will commence from the ports of Karachi and Gwadar using modern vessels equipped with essential amenities to ensure safe and affordable travel. Expansion of routes and port calls is planned based on demand and bilateral agreements," said the minister in a statement.
The launch of ferry service forms part of Pakistan's broader strategy to develop its blue economy, improve trade logistics and promote maritime tourism, reflecting a renewed commitment to sustainable regional sea transport infrastructure, he stated.
Sources in the Ministry of Maritime Affairs confirmed that more ferry service licences were expected to be issued in the near future as a licensing committee was scrutinising the applications.
The licensing committee comprises officials of maritime affairs ministry, defence ministry, foreign affairs ministry, interior ministry, representatives from Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and port and shipping authorities.
PNSC will be the regulator of ferry service providing companies to keep a close watch on the technical aspects of ships and vessel services.
Meanwhile, a senior official of the Karachi Port Trust said that a ferry terminal had already been established at the port. As soon as relevant formalities are notified, the terminal will be handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency for handling immigration matters.
Other relevant departments including the Customs and security divisions will also depute their staff at KPT and Gwadar Port terminals.
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