KPT clears 16,430kg waste from Karachi harbour

May 04, 2026 (MLN): Karachi Port Trust (KPT) removed 16,430 kilograms of solid waste from high-risk harbour areas during its latest weekly clean-up drive, reflecting ongoing efforts to contain marine pollution at one of Pakistan’s busiest trade gateways.

The recovered waste included plastic debris, floating garbage, organic refuse, and discarded fishing materials, all of which pose risks to marine ecosystems, port operations, and coastal biodiversity, according to the press release.

The clean-up was carried out by KPT’s Marine Pollution Control Department (MPCD) across key operational zones, including the dumping and transfer site, East Wharf, West Wharf, and Boat Basin Jetty areas particularly exposed to vessel traffic, cargo handling, and urban runoff.

The operation involved 54 boats and 164 personnel working in shifts to ensure full coverage of polluted stretches within the harbour.

All collected waste was transported to the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board’s designated Garbage Transfer Station for disposal in accordance with environmental regulations.

Sustained port cleanliness remains critical for maintaining efficient shipping operations, as pollution buildup can disrupt vessel movement, delay turnaround times, and increase operational hazards.

With Karachi handling the bulk of Pakistan’s seaborne trade, environmental management at port facilities is closely tied to logistics efficiency and broader economic activity.

It indicated that efforts to control marine pollution will continue through regular clean-up operations, alongside plans to deploy improved waste collection equipment and monitoring systems to strengthen long-term environmental compliance.

Copyright Mettis Link News