Pakistan to launch international ferry service for Iran، Iraq Pilgrims

KARACHI: Pilgrims going to Iran and Iraq that preparations to start a ferry service abroad from Pakistan have entered the final stages. The service is expected to start this month, which is being considered a major development in the country’s history.

According to Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Ports and Shipping Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the soft launch of the ferry service terminal will be done on January 8.

He said that this is the first time that a private company has been formally licensed to operate an international ferry service in Pakistan.

The Federal Minister said that the ambassadors of Iran, Iraq and Yemen have also been contacted for this project.

The ambassadors have been requested to inform the ferry service operators in their respective countries about their cooperation with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs of Pakistan. This initiative will provide a new, relatively cheap and easy travel facility to pilgrims.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said that decisions will be made on the basis of performance in the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation. The officers and administration who perform well will be given opportunities to move forward.

He said that the launch of the ferry service will not only benefit the pilgrims but will also create new activities in the maritime sector.

According to the officials, the ferry service will provide a safe and organized route for pilgrims going to Iran and Iraq as an alternative to air and land travel.

It is expected that a large number of passengers will benefit from this facility after the regular launch of the service.