Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs, chaired by MNA Abdul Qadir Patel, convened to deliberate on the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) and budgetary proposals for the fiscal year 2025-26. During the meeting, the committee unanimously approved the Ministry’s request for Rs. 3045.718 million.

According to a statement by National Assembly of Pakistan, discussions covered ongoing PSDP projects for 2024-25 and future initiatives by the Gwadar Port Authority. The committee expressed its commitment to enhancing Gwadar and supporting its residents, endorsing the Gwadar Blue Economy Center aimed at developing the area as a maritime hub. The center is intended to promote sustainable economic growth and maximize the potential of Pakistan’s maritime sector. Chairman Patel emphasized the importance of including the Province of Sindh in the Blue Economy initiative.

The committee also addressed severe traffic congestion and poor road conditions near Karachi Port Trust. A sub-committee was formed to tackle these issues, tasked with clearing the vicinity within a month. The sub-committee will be led by Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol, with members Mr. Kesoo Mal Kheal Das and Mr. Hassaan Sabir.

The meeting was attended by Minister Qasir Ahmed Sheikh and several honorable members, along with senior officers from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, both in person and via Zoom.