February 21, 2007	Wednesday	Safar 3, 1428

KARACHI, Feb 20: Cargo handling activity at the Karachi port’s wharves fell sharply on Tuesday owing perhaps to safety steps taken by the authorities in the backdrop of Sunday’s fire in the PNSC building.

The cargo volume shrank to 15,494 tons comprising 14,544 tons of export cargo, while import tonnage was said to be at its all-time low at 950 tons.

Meanwhile, four ships carrying containers and crude oil are expected to arrive at the outer anchorage on Wednesday, according to KPT sources.

Berthing activity at the wharves was light as only Khaleda to unload and load general cargo was berthed after the departure of four.

The ships which departed included Norasia Alps, Dimitris, Independence Spirit and Evegnia, while Cherry Star is due to sail out on Wednesday.

The following ships are due on Wednesday: Johar with crude oil, Y.M. Faha, Orient Independence and Hyundai Sprinter.