Islamabad: Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has successfully handled two foreign bulk carriers carrying a total of 101,000 tonnes of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser and wheat, announced Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Sunday. The operation underscores the port’s capacity to manage essential imports vital for agricultural production and food security.

According to Press Information Department, the minister praised the efforts of KPT engineers, port operators, pilots, terminal operators, dockworkers, and transporters involved in the operation. The simultaneous handling of the vessels highlights the commitment to maintaining efficient cargo discharge operations. The two vessels, MV ZHONG CHANG 538 and MV GOKOVA M, were berthed at Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose (KGML), carrying 50,000 tonnes of DAP fertiliser and 51,000 tonnes of wheat, respectively.

KPT operational data indicates that MV ZHONG CHANG 538 was berthed at Berth 10/11 and has discharged 48,525 tonnes of its DAP cargo, nearing the completion of unloading operations with a discharge rate of 5,481 tonnes in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, MV GOKOVA M, berthed at Berth 16/17, has discharged over 7,200 tonnes of wheat, with unloading operations ongoing.

Junaid Chaudhry emphasized that the handling of these vessels showcases KPT’s operational efficiency and dedication to enhancing berth utilization and supply chain performance. He noted that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is implementing reforms to reduce vessel turnaround times and improve maritime infrastructure.

KPT Chairman Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed acknowledged Karachi Port’s crucial role in the nation’s trade and supply chain, particularly in facilitating imports of agricultural inputs and essential food commodities. The vessels were prioritized for berthing under government directives, and the port authority remains dedicated to modernizing infrastructure and expanding cargo-handling capacity to support economic activity.