Private Sector Proposes Routes for Gwadar-Gulf Ferry Service
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s ambitious maritime expansion received a boost as five private companies submitted proposals on Friday for routes of the upcoming ferry service from Gwadar Port to Gulf countries, according to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
The proposed ferry service aims to establish a direct maritime link between Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, offering an affordable and efficient mode of transportation for passengers and cargo.
🚢 A New Era for Regional Connectivity
Announced earlier this month, the ferry service is part of a larger initiative to enhance Gwadar Port’s operational capacity. The government seeks to make Gwadar a key player in regional trade, reducing reliance on overland routes and improving access for expatriates, pilgrims, and cross-border traders.
Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry chaired a high-level review meeting to evaluate the technical and financial feasibility of the ferry operations. The ministry confirmed growing private sector interest in the project, with five firms presenting detailed route proposals.
“The ferry service will promote regional connectivity and trade,” the minister said, adding that the project will place Gwadar on the international maritime map.
🤝 Balochistan Government Lends Full Support
During the meeting, Minister Chaudhry held a telephonic conversation with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, who expressed complete support for the initiative. The CM stated that the ferry service, especially a potential Gwadar-Oman route, would make travel easier for locals and pilgrims alike.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the Balochistan government affirmed its commitment to the ferry service, calling it a milestone for economic and social development.
🏗️ Development Efforts in Gwadar Underway
The Balochistan government also announced that:
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1.2 million gallons of clean drinking water will be supplied daily through a new water plant under the Gwadar Port Authority.
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Skills training and overseas job placement programs will be offered to 30,000 youth, in collaboration with the Pak-China Technical Vocational Centre.
Chief Minister Bugti emphasized the province’s dedication to youth development, calling it essential for long-term prosperity in Gwadar.
⚓ Gwadar Port’s Commercial Push
The ferry project is a part of Pakistan’s renewed focus on making Gwadar Port fully functional. Although developed over a decade ago, the port has struggled to attract consistent commercial traffic. Recent government efforts include:
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Urging the private sector to route cargo through Gwadar
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Reviewing comparative trade costs with regional ports
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Implementing short- and medium-term strategies to activate port operations within six months, as directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
🌍 What This Means for Pakistan
The Gwadar-Gulf ferry service is expected to:
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Boost regional trade
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Create employment opportunities
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Enhance travel options for Pakistani expatriates and pilgrims
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Position Gwadar as a regional logistics hub
With growing private sector interest and government backing, the project is seen as a game-changer for Pakistan’s maritime and economic future.
