The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has banned entry of vessels more than 20 years old into the Port limits from January 1, 2005. The decision was taken following the Tasman Spirit incident and socio-economic losses from the oil spill.
Media Advisor to the PQA, Mrs. Rizwan Khan told newsmen here that according to an official survey at least 27 percent ships, coming to the Port Qasim, were over 20 years old and could create a serious problems any time. The issue is all the more grave as Port Qasim had 22 bends against only two with KPT.
"Due to many bends here, an old vessel could break into small pieces before reaching any berth," she remarked. She informed that the PQA's board had already approved the decision and it had been forwarded to the Ministry for endorsement.
Mariners had been asked to reshape their operations according to the coming situation, however formal notices would be issued to them some times later, she said.
Mrs Rizwan Khan said other neighbouring countries had already tightened the belt and were allowing the ships only below 15 years old. It further observed that since the import and the export potential would remain the same, the interaction of market forces would render the same at the original level after some adjustments.
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