Ship recycling has resumed at Pakistan’s Gadani Ship Breaking Yard after an eight-year pause, with seven vessels now anchored for dismantling in a major boost to the country’s maritime and industrial sectors.
The revival follows reforms introduced by the Maritime Task Force, with support from the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and other institutions, paving the way for the industry’s return.
The federal government has granted ship recycling formal industrial status and is continuing reforms to align the sector with international standards. Modernisation of recycling yards is underway in accordance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines.
Officials say nine of Gadani’s 16 ship recycling yards have already been upgraded to meet the requirements of the *Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, while the remaining *seven yards are undergoing inspection.
The government also plans to establish a modern treatment, storage and disposal facility to help protect the coastal environment and marine life.
Once fully operational, each recycled vessel is expected to contribute around 25 million US dollars to the national economy, while Gadani is projected to meet 30 per cent of Pakistan’s steel scrap demand, strengthening the country’s maritime economy and industrial growth.
