Govt seeks space-based solutions to boost maritime management

January 21, 2026 (MLN): The government has emphasized the importance of advanced space-based monitoring systems to strengthen maritime security, improve sea management and enhance responses to environmental and climate-related threats along Pakistan’s coastline.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry made these remarks during a visit to the headquarters of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the first such visit by any maritime affairs minister.

SUPARCO Chairman Yusuf Khan and senior officials briefed the minister on the organisation’s capabilities in satellite monitoring, maritime safety, port management and disaster response, according to a press release issued.

The briefing highlighted the use of satellite technology for identifying potential sites for new ports as part of Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure expansion.

Also outlined were plans for satellite- and artificial intelligence-based relief and rescue operations within national maritime boundaries to improve efficiency and response times.

Addressing environmental challenges, the minister stressed the need to use space technology to counter climate change impacts, coastal erosion and disaster risks affecting the maritime sector.

He emphasized conserving ocean biodiversity, ensuring sustainable use of marine resources and aligning national maritime policies with global conservation commitments.

The minister noted that protection of marine life, including areas beyond national jurisdiction, has become increasingly important, adding that Pakistan, as a member of the Ocean Biodiversity Treaty, supports international efforts to safeguard ocean ecosystems and ensure long-term sustainability.

SUPARCO officials proposed developing artificial intelligence-based solutions for ports, including systems to monitor cargo dwell time and address customs inefficiencies through the Artificial Intelligence Maritime Secretariat (AIMS) at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.

Both sides discussed institutionalizing cooperation between the ministry and SUPARCO, agreeing to hold a formal signing ceremony and appoint focal persons to fast-track coordination and implementation of joint projects.

The minister was also briefed on SUPARCO’s use of high-resolution satellite imagery and digital modelling to monitor mangroves, track maritime traffic, detect oil spills and assess coastal pollution.

 Capabilities in cyclone and storm surge hazard detection, urban flood modelling and early warning systems were also highlighted as critical tools for protecting coastal communities.

Praising SUPARCO’s role in disaster management and its participation in the international Cospas-Sarsat search and rescue programme, the minister said integrating beacon-based systems could further enhance maritime safety and emergency response.

Furthermore, he warned that Pakistan’s coastline is increasingly vulnerable to rising sea levels, extreme weather and erosion, stressing that closer collaboration between maritime authorities and scientific institutions is essential for informed, data-driven policymaking.

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