Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry emphasized the importance of strengthening the link between ports and their adjacent cities, advocating for the development of port cities through employment, tax revenues, logistics, industrial activity, and waterfront regeneration. He highlighted the historical connection between ports and cities and underscored the need to restore ports’ roles as drivers of urban economic growth and healthcare providers for surrounding communities.

According to Press Information Department, the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has aligned with the minister’s vision by organizing its 35th free medical camp at Bhit Island, providing healthcare services to 513 residents. This initiative, guided by the theme “Healthcare Beyond Boundaries,” aims to enhance access to medical care in coastal communities. The camp, directed by the Federal Minister, reflects the government’s broader objective of ensuring that port and coastal area communities reap the benefits of development activities.

The KPT medical team provided free consultations, medicines, and laboratory services, with 513 patients examined, including 202 men, 201 women, and 110 children. Approximately 70 laboratory tests were conducted, with a focus on early detection of hepatitis B and C. Skin-related ailments were prevalent, accounting for around 70 percent of reported cases, alongside respiratory and gastrointestinal issues. Chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes were also identified among attendees.

In addition to medical services, a KPT speech therapist held an awareness session for mothers, focusing on early detection, prevention, and treatment of developmental delays and neurological disorders in children. The session underscored the significance of speech therapy and early intervention.

Junaid Chaudhry called on the KPT to continue such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of bringing essential healthcare services to island and underserved coastal communities.