Govt kicks off Rs12bn Gadani shipbreaking yard modernization

September 03, 2026 (MLN): The federal government has begun implementation of a Rs12 billion project to modernize the Gadani shipbreaking yard, with infrastructure upgrades underway to bring the facility in line with international safety and environmental standards.

Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry shared this while chairing a steering committee meeting to review progress on the project, where he said physical construction has commenced on key facilities including a 30-bed hospital, a labor colony, a school, and solar power infrastructure, according to a press release issued.

The minister said the objective is to transform Gadani's traditional shipbreaking practices into a modern, safe, and environmentally responsible ship-recycling industry that meets global standards, highlighting the yard's critical role in Pakistan's steel-scrap market and broader supply chains.

The project spans both social and industrial infrastructure, incorporating 32 kilometers of internal roads, a public park, hazardous and industrial waste-treatment systems, fire and rescue stations, and dedicated water treatment facilities.

Briefing the committee, Project Director Saeed Ahmed Umrani said implementation has entered the active procurement and construction phase, backed by a federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) allocation of Rs780 million for 2026–27.

The overhaul is aimed at aligning Gadani with the requirements of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.

Junaid Chaudhry directed project authorities to maintain implementation momentum and ensure that all new infrastructure meets strict operational benchmarks.

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