Keti Bunder: Zardari urges integrated plan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday called for an integrated approach to the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port, stressing that the project should be backed by reliable road connectivity, power and water supply, industrial infrastructure and other essential facilities. The president made the remarks during a presentation by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) on the proposed development of Keti Bunder Port. Welcoming the Chinese delegation, he appreciated China's continued interest in supporting Pakistan's infrastructure and maritime development. He said Keti Bunder had significant potential as an additional maritime gateway that could strengthen Pakistan's port and logistics network while supporting greater connectivity and trade. He emphasised the need for close technical coordination between the Chinese side and relevant Pakistani authorities. The president also stressed that environmental sustainability should remain a key consideration, particularly the protection of the fragile Indus Delta ecosystem and the interests and livelihoods of local fishing communities. He encouraged continued technical engagement to further refine the master plan and identify an appropriate implementation and financing framework for the project. The Chinese delegation presented the Conceptual Master Plan for Keti Bunder Port, envisaging a new deep-water maritime gateway with multiple terminals, logistics facilities and supporting infrastructure. The proposed Phase-I development includes a multi-purpose terminal with a 500-metre quay, with a preliminary engineering cost estimate of approximately $522.34 million. The Chinese delegation comprised CHEC Chief Representative in Pakistan Wu Ping, Head of Marketing Department Wang Zongde, Engineer Xu Tielin and General Manager of Strategy and Marketing Ali Raza. Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, Senators Saleem Mandviwala and Sherry Rehman, Sindh Minister for Energy, Planning and Development Nasir Hussain Shah, Special Assistant to Chief Minister for Investment Qasim Naveed Qamar also attended the meeting. (WITH INPUTS FROM APP)