Karachi port terminal doubles bulk vessel capacity to 120,000 tonnes

Profit reported that Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML)-Noatum Ports has raised its bulk handling capacity to 120,000 tonnes, up from 60,000, citing the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). Dredging that deepened berths to 15 metres will let larger ships, including post-Panamax vessels, call at the terminal. KPT said vessel turnaround could drop from 13 days to three.

KPT also cited potential freight cost savings of 25 to 35 per cent from handling larger vessels. The next phase will widen cargo handling and storage, with four high-capacity ship unloaders, two ship loaders and 14 food-grade silos planned. Export warehouses are also part of the plan, and the planned silo complex is set at 9 million tonnes while export infrastructure stands at 8.5 million tonnes.

KPT said the upgrade would make vessel operations quicker, storage more efficient and cargo movement smoother. It added that these gains would lift trade efficiency and reinforce Karachi Port's status as a leading maritime entry point.