Gadani, Balochistan: In a significant policy move, the Balochistan government is set to introduce a dedicated ship-breaking law and formally urge the federal government to grant official industry status to the Gadani ship-breaking yard, one of the largest in South Asia.
The announcement came during Senior Minister for Planning and Development Zahoor Buledi’s official visit to the yard. He chaired a high-level review meeting on the Balochistan Development Authority (BDA), assessing current performance and evaluating developmental progress in the region.
Rs. 12 Billion Project to Modernize Gadani
The federal government has already sanctioned a Rs. 12 billion transformation project to upgrade the Gadani yard into a state-of-the-art ship-breaking facility. Key initiatives under this mega project include:
- Road infrastructure development
- A 30-bed hospital
- A fully-equipped fire station
- A rescue center
- A one-window investor facilitation center
- A dedicated water supply system
- Hazardous waste treatment and storage units
These upgrades are aimed at bringing the yard in line with international safety and environmental standards, while boosting investor confidence.
Focus on Local Employment and Economic Growth
Minister Buledi emphasized the need for a comprehensive human resource development plan, instructing the BDA to ensure local workforce empowerment. “The industry must directly benefit the local population,” he stated, highlighting the sector’s role in generating tax revenue and supporting national economic growth.
Addressing Industry Concerns: Scrap Smuggling from Iran
During the session, the Ship-Breakers Association voiced concerns about the inflow of smuggled, non-duty-paid scrap from Iran, which is severely affecting the local market. Minister Buledi assured them that the provincial government will take up the matter with federal authorities to curb illegal imports and protect domestic businesses.
