The Pakistani government has approved approximately USD 42 mln for the redevelopment of the Gadani shipbreaking yard in Balochistan, aiming to transform it into a model green facility aligned with international environmental and climate standards.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced the plan during a high-level meeting, emphasizing the need for sustainable ship recycling. “This transformation is essential to reduce pollution, manage hazardous waste, and support a greener maritime future,” he said.
The initiative will modernize infrastructure, enhance safety measures, and promote environmentally responsible shipbreaking practices. Once a global hub for end-of-life vessels, Gadani has seen a sharp decline due to economic challenges and growing international opposition to beach scrapping over safety and environmental concerns.
Despite its decline, Gadani remains vital to Pakistan’s steel supply chain, producing over 1.2 mln tons of scrap annually. However, years of stagnation have left it lagging behind regional competitors. “Gadani was once among the world’s largest shipbreaking hubs. Today, it must either adapt to green standards or risk further decline,” the minister warned.
