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The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has announced a major reform by reducing the ferry license issuance time from six months to just one month, aiming to accelerate the launch of Pakistan’s long-awaited ferry service.
During a high-level briefing by the Director General of Ports and Shipping, Federal Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the licensing process will be moved to a digital and single-window system to eliminate unnecessary delays and ensure swift decisions.
The minister emphasized that maximum facilitation will be provided to ferry operators. To ease entry, both bank and insurance guarantees will be accepted as viable options for licensing requirements.
Efforts are now in full swing as the ministry prepares routes and frameworks for the pilot phase of the ferry service.
A complete roadmap is expected in the coming weeks, following consultations with private sector operators and relevant authorities.
Federal Minister Chaudhry highlighted that the ferry service will offer a safe, affordable, and convenient alternative for religious pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq.
He also stressed that the initiative will promote tourism and business travel, addressing the concerns of the local business community.
The ferry service is expected to enhance regional connectivity, especially for religious routes, and offer new economic opportunities in Pakistan’s maritime sector.
