ISLAMABAD
In a long-overdue but welcome development, Pakistan has finally granted its first ferry service licence—seven years after the initial applications were submitted—clearing the way for direct maritime passenger routes between Pakistani ports and regional destinations like Iran and Gulf countries.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs confirmed on Monday that a licence has been issued to Sea Keeper, a UK-based ferry operator, paving the way for its operations from Karachi and Gwadar ports. The move comes amid growing pressure from religious pilgrims, particularly those stranded due to a sudden halt in land travel to Iran—a key transit point for those journeying to Iraq for Arbaeen.
Officials say the decision was fast-tracked in response to the urgent need for a reliable and secure travel alternative, especially with nearly a million Pakistani pilgrims expected to travel for the Chehlum of Imam Hussain (RA) this year.
“This initiative goes beyond serving pilgrims—it’s a step toward regional integration, economic development, and maritime tourism, all key pillars of our blue economy agenda,” said Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, while announcing the development.
According to the ministry, initial ferry operations will use modern vessels equipped with essential amenities, ensuring affordable and safe travel. Expansion to additional ports and destinations is expected based on demand and bilateral arrangements.
The project’s momentum comes after years of bureaucratic limbo, during which multiple ferry operators submitted applications (as early as 2017 and 2018) without movement. The recently activated Licensing Committee, composed of representatives from the Ministries of Defence, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), and port authorities, has now started clearing pending cases.
A Karachi Port Trust (KPT) official confirmed that a dedicated ferry terminal has already been established at Karachi Port and will soon be handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to handle immigration and passport control. Customs, port security, and other departments will also deploy their personnel in due course.
The PNSC will serve as the technical regulator, ensuring all operational standards, vessel safety protocols, and compliance measures are strictly followed.
This long-anticipated development not only provides a lifeline for stranded pilgrims but also marks the beginning of a more connected and maritime-driven regional strategy for Pakistan.
