The project will deepen berths and navigational channels
AD Ports Group recently announced the signing of a major dredging agreement between its Karachi Gateway Terminal and Van Oord, a Netherlands-based global leader in dredging and marine contracting, to significantly expand the flow of trade through the Group’s port terminals in Pakistan.
Led by the Group’s international ports operating arm, Noatum Ports, the project will deepen berths and navigational channels at Karachi Gateway Terminal (KGTL), a container terminal, enabling the accommodation of vessels from 305m to 350m in length and 13m to 15.5m in draft. Container handling capacity at KGTL will be increased from 750,000 TEUs to 1mn TEUs upon completion of the expansion works.
Dredging work
At the adjacent Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML), that focuses on general and bulk cargo, the dredging work will double bulk vessel capacity from 60,000 to 120,000 tonnes—reducing freight costs and increasing throughput.
“The project underscores our commitment to promote sustainable development, operational efficiency and long-term value creation for all stakeholders,” said Mohammed Al Tamimi, Chief Executive Officer-Noatum Ports.
Significant upgrade
“Van Oord is proud to be selected by AD Ports Group to realise this significant upgrade to the existing logistic and infrastructure facilities at their Karachi terminals, which will enhance Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure and support its growing economy,” remarked Godfried Van Oord, Area Manager Middle East–Van Oord.
“Ultimately, this initiative will deliver a positive impact for our customers across Pakistan, while modernising Karachi’s port infrastructure for long-term national growth,” stated Khurram Aziz Khan, Chief Executive Officer–Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) and Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML).
