ISLAMABAD: Five private companies have proposed routes for the newly announced ferry service from Gwadar to the Gulf region.

This was revealed during a high-level meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, on Friday.

On July 1, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs had announced an ambitious plan to expand Gwadar Port’s operational capacity by introducing additional shipp­ing lines and launching of a ferry service connecting Pak­istan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The proposals submitted by the five companies outlined technical, operational, and financial aspects of launching new maritime routes from Gwadar. The ferry routes are expected to offer an affordable and efficient alternative for both passenger travel and cargo transport.

The ferry service will increase travel ease between Pakistan and Gulf countries, the minister said. It can position Gwadar as a vital link in regional connectivity and drive long-term economic development.

The meeting concluded with instructions to conduct further evaluations of the submitted proposals of the five private companies.

Authorities were also directed to ensure that all regulatory, technical, and logistical considerations are fully addressed ahead of the launch of the ferry service.

Published in Dawn, July 19th, 2025