Pakistan Approves First International Ferry Service License to Boost Regional Connectivity
In a landmark development for the country’s maritime sector, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has granted its first-ever international ferry service license to Sea Keepers, authorizing the operator to run ferry routes connecting Pakistan with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The approval came after a high-level meeting of the Licensing Committee, which included representatives from the Ministries of Maritime Affairs, Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Interior, as well as officials from the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation and Port & Shipping authorities.
A Milestone for Maritime Connectivity
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, welcomed the move as a historic milestone, aligning with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision and the objectives of Pakistan’s National Maritime Policy. He highlighted that the new ferry service will significantly enhance regional connectivity, promote religious tourism, and support economic integration through sustainable sea transport options.
Affordable Travel for Pilgrims and Expats
The newly licensed ferry service is expected to cater to hundreds of thousands of passengers annually, especially pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq, as well as workers and tourists heading to GCC countries. The minister noted that this initiative will help:
-
Reduce pressure on land transport routes
-
Offer a cost-effective alternative to expensive air travel
-
Improve mobility for the Pakistani diaspora and religious travelers
Launch from Karachi and Gwadar Ports
Initial operations will commence from Karachi and Gwadar ports, using modern ferry vessels equipped with essential safety and comfort amenities. The service is designed to offer safe, reliable, and affordable maritime travel.
The minister added that additional routes and port calls will be explored based on passenger demand and future bilateral agreements.
Supporting Pakistan’s Blue Economy Vision
This development is part of a broader national strategy to:
-
Strengthen Pakistan’s blue economy
-
Improve trade and logistics infrastructure
-
Promote maritime tourism and regional connectivity
By investing in sustainable sea transport, Pakistan aims to reduce dependency on overland routes, diversify transportation networks, and enhance economic opportunities linked to its strategic coastline.
Stay tuned for updates on launch dates, ticketing details, and route schedules as Pakistan enters a new era of regional maritime mobility.
