Keti Bunder Port set for integrated infrastructure push

Mettis Global reported that President Asif Ali Zardari wants Keti Bunder Port built within a wider, joined-up infrastructure setup. He named dependable roads, electricity, water, industrial facilities and other essentials as components of that network. The remarks came at a meeting where China Harbour Engineering Company presented a proposed development plan for the port, according to a press release.

Attendees included Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, senators and provincial officials, along with the Chinese delegation. The Chinese side's preliminary master plan describes a deep-water port with several terminals, logistics facilities and related infrastructure. The first phase would include a 500-metre quay alongside a multi-purpose terminal, and its initial engineering outlay is pegged at about $522.34 million.

Zardari also highlighted environmental sustainability, particularly protection of the Indus Delta ecosystem and local fishing communities. He urged tight technical cooperation between the Chinese firm and Pakistani authorities, and asked for a refined master plan with a suitable financing framework. He also welcomed China's ongoing backing for Pakistan's infrastructure and sea-related growth.