- Port Qasim should reduce charges for LNG cargo vessels: PM Shehbaz.
- Says private sector’s development, investors’ facilitation among top priorities.
- “Installation of modern machinery to reduce Customs clearance time.”
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed to take comprehensive measures for the upgradation of the Karachi Port and ease of access to the harbour via rail and road connectivity.
During his one-day visit to Karachi on Sunday, the premier issued the directives while chairing a session in which he was briefed on the Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Port Qasim and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC).
The high-level session was attended by federal ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Jam Kamal Khan, Ahad Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman and others.
PM Shehbaz said that steps should be taken to reduce Customs clearance time by installation of modern machinery. He also emphasised on connectivity of the KPT via road and rail network for the ease of access for goods.
He also directed that the Lyari Expressway should be opened 24/7 to ensure an unhindered supply of goods to the KPT, as well as linking the port to the Malir Expressway to improve the delivery of goods.
He ordered to enhance the goods’ supply by linking the port to a rail network.
PM Shehbaz ordered the Port Qasim Authority to reduce charges for LNG cargo vessels and bring them in line with the international rates.
He sought a comprehensive strategy for the regulation of shipping lines besides ordering the PNSC to cut its expenditures.
“Development of private sector, ease in doing business and facilitation of investors are our top priorities,” the premier said, adding that the national economy is on the path of stability.
