March 22, 2007	Thursday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 2, 1428

KARACHI, March 21: Brisk shipping activity was witnessed at the port where three ships to load, unload containers, edible oil, and coal were allotted berths at QICT, MPT and Iron Ore and Coal Berth, respectively, during the last 24 hours, says a Port Qasim Authority press release.

Meanwhile five ships namely MSC Panama (containers); Al Mukhtar (furnace oil); Capt. George L (iron ore); Cabanas (coke) and Jo Oak (chemicals) were at the outer anchorage during the same period.

Berth occupancy was maintained at 70 per cent at the port where eight ships occupied berths to load, unload containers, wheat, edible oil, diesel oil and coal, respectively, during the report period.

The port handled a cargo volume of 60,667 tons comprising 45,189 tons imports and 15,478 tons exports inclusive of containerised cargo carried in 2,012 Teus.

Departures were also brisk where two container ships, one bulk carrier, and an oil tanker sailed out during the report period.