KARACHI: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Friday between the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Pakistan Railways (PR) for the repair and maintenance of train tracks and associated structures in the port area.

The MoU was signed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Syed Ali Haider Zaidi and Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmed at the KPT head office.

KPT and the Railways agreed to collaborate on the haulage of cargo by the latter from the port. For achieving this goal a high level committee representing the two entities was constituted. The two ministers would monitor the progress of the committee on fortnightly basis.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Zaidi said that effective use of railways must be made for the haulage of loose cargo and containers from Karachi Port.

The railway minister showed keen interest in exploiting the cargo lifting opportunities available at the KPT.

Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Jamil Akhtar along with a team of experts briefed the visiting Pakistan Railways delegation about the port.

Mr Jamil said the port’s capacity is being enhanced manifold by constructing a freight corridor, bulk cargo terminal, special economic zone and a liquefied natural gas complex.

The KPT chairman assured full support to Pakistan Railways for upgrading of train tracks situated within the port area.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2019